Divine Mercy's Catholic Sun brings the faithful together

By RENEE WEBB
 Content and Design Coordinator

“Wherever the Catholic Sun doth shine, there’s always laughter and good red wine. At least I’ve always found it so. Benedicamus domino.” – The Catholic Sun, a poem by Hilaire Belloc

This simple poem by the French poet inspired the name of a new ministry started in January at Divine Mercy Parish of Algona as it summed up the ministry’s goal to bring people together for a good time as they talk about the faith and grow in fraternity.

Noting that this ministry is not a new concept, Father Zach Jones, parochial vicar of Divine Mercy Parish of Algona, was the driving force behind Catholic Sun evenings because he has witnessed how fruitful other like ministries have been. He cited groups with similar formats such as the national Theology on Tap offered in various places within the diocese as well as parish groups like Curious Catholics in Fort Dodge and Thirsty Souls in Le Mars.

“I’ve seen it work really well and it’s a fun way to engage various demographics of our church in a different way,” said Father Jones, who added this easy going approach offers a different vibe from the more formal liturgical or catechetical context. 

When it comes to the faithful inviting others to participate, the priest said, “It offers a softer opening for a lot of people than come to this Mass or this liturgy that can be a little overwhelming for some. This is a softer, cultural gathering to experience the Catholic faith in a comfortable setting and have a good time while you are doing it.”

Delores Huemiller, director of discipleship for the parish, said parishioners and community members alike are welcome to the monthly Catholic Sun evenings, which are designed for adults as they are often held in bars where alcohol is served. 

“The first night we had this, I saw people there that I haven’t seen at any other event,” she said. “It really reaches people who might not want to come to a formal Bible study and reaches people who are looking more for a social gathering while at the same time appreciate a little catechesis or personal testimony.” 
Deacon Jake Rosenmeyer spoke at a recent gathering of The Catholic Sun.The locations of the monthly Catholic Sun evenings have rotated among the five communities with active secondary church sites in the parish – Algona, Bancroft, Wesley, West Bend and Whittemore.  Most evenings have been held in local bars or restaurants, but if no such business was available the gatherings were held in the church hall.

“I think one of the unique things about The Catholic Sun, Theology on Tap and these types of events is that it shows the faith is not just something we do in the church or only on Sunday, it’s not just going to Mass or confession,” stressed Father Jones. “Faith is supposed to enliven every aspect of our lives. It’s supposed to infuse itself in something as simple as having a beer with friends.” 

The priest mentioned that the faithful can be Catholics at work, at school, on the golf course and at the bar.

“I’ve been very happy with how it has all come together. First, it’s great to see people come out. Our parish is unique in that we have five active locations with all of Kossuth County and some of Palo Alto County,” noted Father Jones. “Every session we have done so far has had someone from all five active sites. It is bringing a lot of the different people and groups together, which is one of the goals.”

Having parishioners come together from the various communities that make up the parish, he noted, has been beautiful to see.

“I’ve been happy with the turnout and the reception we have received,” said the priest. “Even if they haven’t been able to come, they are excited we are doing something like this. It’s been really fruitful so far.”

Huemiller pointed out that the first evening drew about 30 attendees and now they are averaging about 60. 

Not only has there been a diverse population of attendees, but organizers of Catholic Sun evenings said presenters have also varied. Presenters have ranged from a married couple, two priests, a transitional deacon and seminarians.  

Topics have also varied, ranging from a conversion story to the role of the laying, Sts. Peter and Paul, the Mass and church tradition.
Father JonesGiven that some attendees may not be fully engaged in their faith lives, Father Jones said this type of ministry may eventually draw them back to the sacramental life of the church.

Being able to reach parishioners or those from the community who may not come to any other church offering, noted Huemiller, is very beneficial. 

“I’d say it is a huge hit,” she said. “It’s a very low-key and fun time. As people, we have the need and desire for community and then with a mix of a little catechesis, it reaches everyone for different reasons.”

The Catholic Sun evenings are generally held once a month on a Sunday night. The dates and times are published through Divine Mercy’s social media, bulletins and announcements.