The 2024 Priest Convocation took place from Sept. 17- 20 at Rancho Omni Las Palmas, Rancho Mirage. The convocation is a yearly gathering of the priests of the Diocese to reconnect, relax and reflect on chosen themes and issues together.
The theme of the 2024 Convocation was “Parish and Ministry Renewal: Finding Doable Ways Forward,” presented by Dr. William Keimig, D.Min, Deputy Director of the Catechetical Institute (CI) at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio. Dr. Keimig introduced the CI, its unique methodology, and its learning platform. The Diocese has partnered with the CI to provide free resources for every parish and school, thanks to the generous support of Caritas Telecommunications.
The Convocation also features a Jubilarian Mass to honor special priesthood anniversaries. Priests celebrating their 25th anniversary this year were Rev. Pavol Sochulak, S.V.D., Rev. Beni Leu, S.V.D., Rev. Chidi Martinianus Chileke, Rev. Reginald Ibe, Rev. Julian C. Okoroanyanwu, Rev. Celestine Afugwobi, and Rev. Luis A. Segura, M.S.C. Rev. Samuel Michel Alvarez was honored for his 50th anniversary. Priests celebrating their 60th anniversary were Rev. Donald O’Connor, S.V.D., Rev. Anthony Di Leo, Rev. Juan R. Romero, Rev. Michael Barry, SS.CC., Rev. Edmond “Ned” G. O’Donnell, and Rev. Joseph B. Gaglione, C.S.Sp. Priests celebrating their 61st anniversary were Rev. Fred R. Gaglia and Rev. Patrick Crowley, SS.CC. Priests celebrating their 62nd anniversary were Rev. Charles A. Patron, Rev. Msgr. Donald S. Webber, and Rev. Msgr. Robert E. Howard. Priests celebrating their 66th anniversary were +Rev. William J. Kiefer and Rev. Joseph Mel Collier. Celebrating his 67th anniversary was Rev. Paul Baseford. Lastly, Rev. Henry A. Ruszel, C.R., celebrated his 70th anniversary at the Convocation.
The priests had time to rest and recharge throughout the Convocation, including a priest versus seminarian basketball game, in which Bishop Alberto Rojas played.