The summer months typically bring a little respite from the usual activities that take place during the academic year. However, that break from the routine seems to get shorter and shorter each year. The uptick was set in motion this week as a series of meetings and workshops filled my calendar. It is time for another season of religious education and faith formation along with opportunities for prayer, reflection, and service.
On Tuesday I visited the administration and faculty of St. Laurence O'Toole School in Laramie. Although there are challenges facing the school I was impressed and energized by the dedication of the teachers and staff. The teachers have sacrificed much of their time during the summer to work on some very ambitious goals. The fruits of their labors are beginning to bear fruit and I am very appreciative of their commitment to Catholic education.
On Wednesday and Thursday I was in Lander for a series of meetings and discussions. You can read more about the day on Bishop Etienne's blog. http://bishopsblog.dioceseofcheyenne.org/2014/08/02/day-of-study-and-prayer/
It was an exciting time in Lander as the freshmen were just gathering at Wyoming Catholic College for their upcoming outdoor adventures beginning this weekend. The unique structure of Wyoming Catholic College gives the students a solid academic experience rooted in Catholicism coupled with excellent training in leadership skills.
I was grateful that the rain and road construction didn't hamper my travels to a great degree. I had allowed some extra travel time in my schedule so I ended up arriving in Lander a little early. I used that opportunity to go to Sinks Canyon which I had not yet seen since moving to Wyoming. Wow! What a beautiful area. I need to get back there at some point with intentions to do a little hiking up the mountainside.
As a side note, I noticed a sign that said University of Missouri Research Area. My Missouri readers may enjoy a little background information about this area. I had no idea of this connection between the Cowboy State and Columbia, MO.
http://sinkscanyonstatepark.org/Field%20Camp%20History%20and%20Teaching%20Geology.pdf
http://fieldcamp.missouri.edu/geninfo.html
As we enter the month of August today I hope you get a few more opportunities for some late summer fun, rest, and relaxation. I certainly hope to do that myself. However, this weekend I will be "on the clock." I am looking forward to going to Riverton on Sunday to present a catechetical workshop for the school teachers, catechists, and parishioners of St. Margaret's Church. The parish and school at St. Margaret's are accomplishing some great things, and I am grateful for the pastor's invitation to come and be part of it.