Celebrating Diversity

Our Lady of Consolation Basilica and National Shrine in Carey, Ohio

One word that applies to the Order of Friars Minor Conventual is diversity. The friars live on five continents and serve the citizens of many nations. Their work includes (amongst other ministries) providing pastoral care, building schools, teaching, setting up farms, and running shelters. The friars themselves also come from many different countries; they, however, form one brotherhood in which their individual cultures are celebrated and their gifts used in service of others.

Mass at the basilica

On July 18, Our Lady of Consolation Basilica and National Shrine in Carey, Ohio will be celebrating Diversity Sunday. The basilica is staffed by three Conventual Franciscans – Friar John Raphael Hadnagy, Brother Jeffrey Hines, and Brother Randall P. Kin – men who themselves have worked with many different people and seen for themselves how complexly diverse the world really is.

An active faith community at Our Lady of Consolation Basilica and National Shrine

Diversity Sunday at Our Lady of Consolation will begin with Bishop Leonard P. Blair celebrating at the basilica. Once Mass is concluded, parishioners will move outside where festivities are set to ensue. Various folklore groups have prepared show pieces from their cultures, which they plan on performing for the enjoyment of all parishioners. Lots of delicious food and joyful music are to be part of Diversity Sunday as well.

(Source of all related images on webpage and homepage: www.olcshrine.com.)