Regional Gathering April 24-26
To Feature National Visitors
Register by March 1 for Early Bird Price

The 2009 regional gathering will be a Chapter of Visitation and will take place April 24-26 at Stella Maris Retreat Center in Skaneateles, NY.

In addition to conducting regular regional business, the chapter will feature National Minister Patrick Mendés, SFO, and National Spiritual Assistant Fr. Stephen Gross, OFM Conv., as fraternal and pastoral visitors.

The gathering will begin on Friday, April 24, with registration from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. Friday, as usual, will focus on regional business. Saturday through Sunday lunch, much of the time will be devoted to the official visitors and additional presentations. There also will be opportunities for prayer and reflection.

The chapter affords the opportunity to meet and speak with the Regional Executive Council, the National Visitors as well as fellow Franciscans in the region.

"The gathering is open to all fraternity members, not just the ministers or their delegates, and we encourage other attendees especially in light of the Visitation," noted chapter coordinator and regional vice minister Kimberly Marks, SFO. "Please remember that all fraternities must be represented as all of our regional business will be voted on during this gathering."

She added: "Once again this year we will be offering formation materials, and Franciscan items for sale. There will also be items for raffle. So, remember to bring cash or your checkbooks!"

This year there is a $25 discount for those that register early (by March 1). Final deadline for registering is March 31. Print and mail the registration form.

"We are excited about our visitors coming for this gathering," Marks said. "This is an opportunity to meet with other seculars and share your experiences. Many have found the experience beneficial to their fraternity and fraternal life. We look forward to seeing you there!"

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