We welcomed a large audience to this morning’s breakfast meeting, at which Greg Pope — one of the newest staff members of the Diocese of Nashville — explored the roots of his Catholic faith.

In tracing the path to his Catholic faith — and that of his family — Greg shared a story about his first Catholic retreat, when he ventured to Gethsemani Abbey in Trappist, Kentucky. He pointed to the continued impact that such a retreat, through the opportunities to connect with God in the most intimate of settings, has had on his life.

Greg also discussed his new position as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Diocese of Nashville and the many ministries into which he has great insight and visibility. He highlighted the growth of parishes in numerous smaller counties in the diocese, as well as his enthusiasm for the initiatives of the diocese with its fundamental mission to serve the poor.

We also heard an update from Judy Orr, the CEO of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Nashville and the sponsor of today’s meeting, on the recent work by Catholic Charities and its broad scope of coverage across the diocese. She likewise promoted the Festival of Hope Breakfast on April 19, which CBL members are certainly invited to join.

Our thanks to all attendees, and we look forward to seeing you at our next meeting on April 10!