An enthusiastic group of CBL members welcomed Bishop Mark Spalding yesterday to the first in-person meeting of the organization since March of 2020, delighted to see him and equally delighted to see each other.

The crowd of more than 55 members may have been masked but their eyes were smiling as the Bishop followed Mass with an encouraging message of the diocese’s success these past 14 months. He cited the enrollment growth at our schools, the critical response provided by Catholic Charities on so many occasions this past year+, the growth of vocations, and the building plans in the diocese in celebrating the achievements throughout the community.

And he reminded us that to whom much is given, much is expected. “We come together to serve the entire community because we see the face of Christ in every person we serve,” Bishop stated. “We have big dreams, but every one of those dreams are ones that you told to me. I need your wisdom. WE will succeed together because working together, we will make these dreams come true.”

The morning was sponsored by Star Physical Therapy, and the irrepressible and always upbeat Marty Blair was there to tell Star’s story, but more importantly, to support Team Catholic. Dr. Rebecca Hammel shared the good news about our Catholic schools and the crowd saluted her just completed doctorate. The morning was capped by a special presentation to founding member and long-time CBL Treasurer Tom Boles, thanking him for his tireless and committed service to the CBL.

Welcome back to a morning of networking and a faith-filled celebration.