St. Andrew Men’s Group

This group provides an opportunity for men to come together and

• Form a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ by celebrating Eucharist together in the Chapel
• Inspire new avenues of faith, fellowship and service by sharing breakfast together after Eucharist
• Explore and discuss Catholic teachings by participating in a brief presentation of topics such as spirituality and Catholic life challenges at home, in the workplace and in social settings.

Our gatherings are held on the first Saturday of every month. We begin with Eucharist in the Chapel at 7:15 am, followed by a light breakfast and a presentation and discussion.

The Scriptural Significance of St. Andrew Men’s Group

“One of the two who had followed Him (Jesus) after hearing John (the Baptist who identified Jesus as the Lamb of God) was Simon Peter’s brother Andrew. The first thing he (Andrew) did was seek out his brother Simon and tell him, ‘We have found the Messiah!’ (This term means the Anointed.) He brought him to Jesus, who looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon, son of John; your name shall be Cephas (which is rendered Peter).’ ” (John 1:40)

Like Andrew, the group wishes to draw men closer to Jesus.

Origin of the St. Andrew Men’s Group.

More than 25 years ago, seven St. Catharine’s men attended a men’s retreat at Loyola House of Retreats in Morristown, NJ. Being very moved, these men sought to keep the spirit of the retreat weekend alive through a monthly gathering of the retreat group. That became the genesis of a group of men dedicated to the advancement of their Journey of Faith.

Format of the Monthly Gathering

E-mail notifications are the primary method of communicating with the group. An e-mail is sent to all members prior to each gathering.

Gatherings on the first Saturday of each month start with a Eucharistic service led by a Deacon at 7:15 am in the Chapel. Then a light breakfast of bagels, pastry and coffee is served in the second-floor meeting room in the classroom wing. This is followed by a short program and discussion.

One man acts as the master of ceremony. A free-will offering is taken up after breakfast which is intended to cover the out-or-pocket expenses for the breakfast.

The group is directed by a steering committee who facilitate the functioning of the programs. Presentations by group members are welcomed and encouraged. The steering committee can assist members in developing and delivering their presentations.

To join the group, simply forward your e-mail address to Bob Buus at w2od@aol.com and you will be notified of the upcoming meetings each month.