Summit challenges the culture

John Hunt writes that the Feb. 4-6 event will be the highlight of the Legatus year . . .

John J. Hunt

You’re invited! The consummate Legatus experience of any year is our Annual Summit. In just three months, the next Summit will be held in Dana Point, Calif.

The Feb. 4-6 event promises to be the highlight of the Legatus year. If you’ve never experienced a summit, you haven’t enjoyed the full benefits of your membership. Legates who return from their first Summit are in awe of the entire experience, and they return again and again. Come and see for yourself.

The upcoming Summit’s lineup of speakers is an extraordinary sampling of the finest Catholic hierarchy — and lay men and women — who will inspire and motivate Legates to Challenge the Culture, the gathering’s theme.

The sight of our Legatus chaplains concelebrating Mass with Francis Cardinal George, archbishop of Chicago and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York, and Bishop Tod Brown, Diocese of Orange, will be a moving representation of our quest to grow in the faith. Enjoy a breathtaking liturgy in the exquisite San Juan Capistrano Basilica, and revel in the Old Mission’s history.

The Summit, however, is more than a spiritual event. You will be challenged to embrace your role as Catholic laity in a culture that seeks to minimize our faith, values and even human life itself. You will return home emboldened to defend life and all the tenets of our Catholic faith after hearing from Patricia Heaton, a pro-life Emmy Award-winning actress. You’ll hear reflections on the state of the economy from Thomas Donohue, president of the U. S. Chamber of Commerce.

All of this, coupled with the fellowship of Legates from across the United States and beyond, will give you an experience you’ll never forget.

PS: As you read this message, we approach that time of year when your Legatus membership is about to renew. I’m sure that the enjoyment of the monthly chapter experiences, enhanced by your growth in the faith is a gift to be treasured. Renew today to assure yourself another year of spiritual refreshment!

John Hunt is Legatus’ executive director. He and his wife Kathie are members of Legatus’ Chicago Chapter.