Listening to the Spirit... how do you imagine the next 50 years?

[Saint Anthony]

Thinking in half centuries may help us see a bigger picture. 50 years after its founding the Capuchin friars had to find a new paradigm for St. Anthony's and began administering the building and grounds as a retreat center. This decision shifted focus on formation and studies for friars to formation and spiritual growth opportunities lay persons (plus a place for deacon formation and priest retreats.) They could not have known in 1971 they would minister to over 50,000 men, women and youth for over 4 decades.

Fr. Dan, Fr. Tom, and all the Capuchin friars who have served at St. Anthony's have embodied the values they profess:  hospitality, partnering, joyful service, justice for all creation, compassion, and empowerment. They have provided an ecumenical openness and diversity of programming to meet various needs, including youth and family ministry.

        1919-1970 House of Studies for Capuchin Friars (51 years)
        1971-2013 Capuchin-sponsored Retreat Center (42 years)

Some questions to consider:

• What will a retreat center be like that is not led by Capuchins (nor presumably by another religious order)?
• What are current formation and support needs of lay persons living their vocation in the world?
• What are current formation and support needs of lay persons who are ecclesial ministers?
• Should we expect more or less ecumenical collaboration in the future?
• What kind of gatherings benefit from the asset of 75 bedrooms (with no or minimal TV, radio, computer)?
• Would it benefit Viterbo University or other institutions of adult learning to set up a presence at St. Anthony's?
• What kind of resident or non-resident, full-time or part-time human resources are needed for programming? 
• Add your questions...
  

How do you see the future of St. Anthony's?
        2014-2018 Transition years leading up to Centennial Celebration
        2019-2069 Another 50 Years...!?!