I spent a long weekend in Nashville. The first part of the weekend was the diocesan youth rally. Over one hundred teens came together to celebrate the theme, “Live Out Loud.”

It was great for me to be with Sally Corby; she and I know each other from working in diocesan youth offices. She’s been in that work in Nashville for over a dozen years. She’s loved by many because she is the ‘’face” of the office.

I got to meet the new associate director, Kevin Edwards. He is returning home to Nashville after going to college and teaching out in California. I was impressed with his energy, his openness and his rapport with teens.

The rally was held at Holy Family Church in Brentwood TN. A colleague in ministry who works at the parish, Harvey Carter, invited me to come to speak at the weekend masses as well as to speak at a Generations of Faith session on the Monday night. Over 300 folks turned out.

I am impressed by many things in this parish. First, the physical plant is amazing.

When I first saw it, I thought it was a mega-church for another denomination! It is a wonderful place for worship and community for this rapidly growing suburb of Nashville. Secondly, as is the case in many parishes in my travels, I am so impressed by the adults who are paid staff. Father Ed Alberts has some first class people working with him. I especially enjoyed the “informal workshop” with the Generations of Faith team after the presentation. Special thanks to Catherine Birdwell, Janis Lovecchio and Harvey for all they did to make this event happen and for wonderful hospitality.

It’s always a treat to visit with friends when I travel. I got to see 2 students from my teaching time at St. Thomas More High School (in Lafayette). It was super to have lunch with Elizabeth and her sons as well as to see Jenny and her young family. I also got to visit with Therese Williams, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the diocese. I enjoy her energy and it was an added benefit to a great trip.