Successful Catholics at the Capitol Event
MN KC Blog * Written by David Whatmuff
I had the pleasure and privilege of attending the Catholics at the Capitol conference this week. This event was arranged by Brother Knight Jason Adkins, President of the Minnesota Catholic Conference, and we Minnesota Knights of Columbus were a major sponsor.
The day started at the RiverCentre in St Paul, with a Continental Breakfast, courtesy of the Knights, followed by Morning Prayer, and the Celebration of Holy Mass.
The morning program continued with presentations by Bishop James Conley from the Diocese of Lincoln, and Gloria Purvis Scott, of EWTN and Black Catholics United for Life, followed by a briefing on the issues which were planned to be addressed with the representatives at the State Capitol. This was a chance for us to be educated in the key challenges facing our state and gain insights into effective advocacy.
After a boxed lunch we were bussed over to the State Capitol, where we split into groups appropriate to our Districts, and had meetings with Senators and House Representatives to discuss the issues.
The day closed with a Rosary in the Rotunda, followed by a brief address and thanks by Archbishop Hebda, a rousing “send off” by Bishop Quinn, and a joint blessing by all the Minnesota Bishops.
This was the first of such conferences, attended by about 1000 Catholics from across the State, including your State Officers and many other Knights, and I believe it was a great success, worthy of becoming an annual event!