Dozens of priests distribute Communion to thousands of people during every Steubenville conference weekend. If you’ve ever wondered how that manages to go so smoothly, talk to Father Schumer and Father Sullivan. Both priests spend their conference weekends helping the seminarians to coordinate all of the Masses, Processions, and Confessions.
Fr. Sullivan’s story is a great reminder of the importance of good friends. An older friend in high school began pursuing seminary, and Fr. Sullivan says that his joy was contagious. Because of this, Fr. Sullivan began attending different events at the seminary, and he started to consistently spend time in Adoration. The Eucharistic procession and Adoration are still some of his favorite parts of Steubenville. Since becoming a priest, hearing Confessions is another one of this favorite things to do at Steubenville; he loves being able to see the freedom and joy that comes from a good Confession!
Fr. Schumer has been to almost every single Steubenville St. Louis Conference. The only exceptions are the times that he was studying in Rome! Currently, Fr. Schumer serves as the Director of Worship for the seminary. Just like Fr. Sullivan, Fr. Schumer’s favorite part about Steubenville is the Sacraments. He loves the way that teens meet Jesus in the Sacraments and prays that they continue seeking the Sacraments at home.
After so many years attending, Fr. Sullivan knows some stuff about Steubenville. He suggests getting practical right off the bat once arriving at home. One of his tips is to set an alarm or reminder on your phone to pray so that it becomes part of your ordinary life.
Quotables:
Fr. Sullivan: “Letting the seeds of grace that you receive at Steubenville grow in your heart when you get home isn’t complicated: stay near the Eucharist, and come to frequent confession!”
Fr. Schumer: “I pray that when the conference ends, they remember that the Sacraments are always there and Jesus is waiting for them.”
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