All are welcome to the Surgite Eamus Banquet on August 1

“It is extremely important to our diocese to support our seminarians, deacon candidates, and those pursuing religious vocations,” explained Deacon Rob Hrabe. “In my mind, there are few things more important in life than passing on the faith to the next generation. We cannot do that without priests and religious.”

When he first started as the Western South Dakota Catholic Foundation director two years ago, Jim Kinyon learned about the challenges funding seminarian education. “I believed that if people had the opportunity to meet these outstanding young men and understand the importance of supporting their formation, they would respond.”

After speaking with Bishop Scott Bullock and Vocations Director Mark McCormick, the foundation launched the Surgite Emus Mass and Banquet. Last year’s presentation featured vocation stories from the diocese — seminarians, religious men and women, and those in discernment. Seated at tables spread across the hall, seminarians and religious were encouraged to talk about their vocational journey at their tables and in a short presentation after the meal. 

“The highlight of the evening was getting to know the seminarians and others pursuing religious vocations on a more personal level,” said Deacon Rob Hrabe. “We see their pictures and see them around once in a while but don’t often get a chance to have a conversation with them and get to know them better.

This year’s event will be held August 1, at St. Joseph Hall following the 5:30 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. According to Jim Kinyon the evening will be an opportunity to celebrate the gift of the priesthood and support the men preparing to serve the diocese through “an evening of faith, fellowship, dinner, and an inspiring program.”

The evening will feature a catered meal and a Dessert Dash benefiting seminarian formation. This year’s presentation will feature priests sharing the stories behind their chalices and the significance of these sacred vessels in their priestly ministry.

“Last year’s event exceeded expectations,” agreed Kinyon. “Guests loved meeting our seminarians. The Dessert Dash raised more than $1,000 per table, and the event quickly established itself as one of the foundation’s signature fundraisers.”

“Last year’s Dessert Dash was a lively highlight,” agreed Heather Bunkers. “Bidding is a meaningful way to let our future priests know that we believe in them.”

Please RSVP online by July 22. Learn more and register by clicking the link below or by calling 605-721-6843.