The Andrew Dinner takes its name from a passage in the Gospel of John, which describes how St. Andrew brought his brother Simon Peter to meet Jesus. In that spirit of brotherhood, the Andrew Dinner was held in the Diocese of Corpus Christi on Nov. 8 in the Youth Center at St. Pius X Parish.
Over forty-five young men between the ages of 15 and 22 were accompanied by priests from various parishes across the diocese to enjoy an evening of questions, answers, and stories about hearing and answering God’s call to the priesthood.
This annual event was part of National Vocations Awareness Week. It continues to attract larger numbers of young men every year. Bob Cummings, Director of the Office of Vocations for the Diocese of Corpus Christi, was glad to see an increase in attendance.
“The Andrew Dinner is an opportunity for the young men from various parishes to gather and hear vocation stories from seminarians and priests,” Cummings said. “It is an event that emphasizes fraternity in a relaxing, no-pressure environment.”
Cummings was also very enthused to see Bishop Michael Mulvey, along with several priests, at the Andrew Dinner to show their support for those attending and share their unique stories of conversion, discernment, and eventual acceptance of their call to the priesthood. “The stories of conversion show how the Holy Spirit works in calling young men to be priests,” said Bishop Mulvey. “It is truly a blessing to be a part of such a special moment.”