Archdiocesan news briefs
Augustine Institute marks 20 years
The Augustine Institute, a graduate school of theology and provider of curricula and digital resources headquartered in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, celebrated its 20th anniversary on Aug. 28, the feast of St. Augustine. The institute was founded in Denver and moved to the former Boeing Leadership Campus north of Florissant in summer 2024.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Archbishop Samuel Aquila of Denver celebrated a special Mass and dedication of the new campus, including a blessing of an original bronze-cast statue of St. Augustine by artisans at ALBL Oberammergau, a German studio known for sacred art.
“The Augustine Institute was founded 20 years ago as a new kind of graduate school for the New Evangelization, and it has continued and grown its mission in many ways,” Augustine Institute President Timothy Gray said as he welcomed guests. “We have expanded into media production, online catechesis and parish formation programs, reaching millions through initiatives like Formed, the Amen app, and Word of Life K-8 curriculum. We are deeply grateful for the support of our alumni and financial and spiritual benefactors, and we rejoice in being able to continue this mission today, confident in God’s guidance for the years ahead.”
“Reflejos – El Paso”
An opening reception for “Reflejos – El Paso,” a exhibit of travelers’ photos, poems and reflections from the Solidarity at the Border Pilgrimage, will be held from 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, at the Cardinal Rigali Center, 20 Archbishop May Drive in Shrewsbury. For more information, contact Marie Kenyon at mariekenyon@archstl.org.
Food security summit
“From Hunger to Hope,” a food security summit, will be held Thursday, Oct. 9, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Cardinal Rigali Center in Shrewsbury. The event is for volunteers and community leaders to address the root causes of hunger and explore how to provide sustainable, dignified access to food for all in our region. Participants will hear from speakers, learn about best practices from food pantry leaders, explore successful models for community gardens and advocacy campaigns and have the opportunity to network with others. Sponsors include Catholic Relief Services’ local advisory board, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Louis, Operation Food Search, the St. Louis Area Food Bank and the Community Impact Network. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. To RSVP, visit stlreview.com/3VEvGx0.
Mass for people with special needs
Sacred Heart Church, 17 Ann Ave. in Valley Park, is seeking participants for a Special Needs Mass at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. Individuals with special needs who wish to participate in the Mass as a lector, usher, greeter, petition reader or other role should contact Kathy Houston at redstart1@sbcglobal.net or call (636) 861-3469. A sign language interpreter also is needed. All are welcome to join Sacred Heart Parish in celebrating Mass with individuals and families with special needs. A luncheon sponsored by the Sacred Heart Pro-Life Committee will take place afterward in the church hall. To attend the luncheon, RSVP with the number of guests who will be attending to khams@att.net.
Archbishop Sheen pilgrimage
The archdiocesan Mission Office and Respect Life Apostolate are offering a day pilgrimage to Peoria, Illinois, to visit the tomb and museum of Archbishop Fulton Sheen on Tuesday, Oct. 28. The late archbishop was national director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith (1950-66) and authored the Spiritual Adoption Prayer for Unborn Children. Cost is $50 per person and includes bus transportation, box lunch and light snacks. To register, visit archstl.flocknote.com/signup/217678.
Retreat for single mothers
Momentum, a faith community for Catholic single mothers, will offer a day retreat for single mothers and their children from noon-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at St. Nicholas Parish in O’Fallon, Illinois. The retreat is a time to pause, experience God’s peace and be renewed in faith while connecting with other women who understand the journey of single motherhood. Moms are welcome to attend with or without their children. The retreat is free and includes lunch, snacks and child care. Mass will be celebrated. To register, visit stlreview.com/46elHUk. To learn more about Momentum, see www.momentummothers.org.
