Tower Topics ~ Summer 2001

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Abbey, Seminary unveil new videos, brochures

Conception Abbey and Conception Seminary College have stepped up their efforts to assist young men considering priesthood or religious life.

The seminary’s Office of Recruitment and Admissions, and the abbey’s Vocation Office have released a pair of videos and brochures that provide practical advice and basic information about the abbey and seminary.

Produced by Jim Aylward of Kansas City, Mo., and narrated by Bill Kalahurka of the popular local television series, “Kansas City Crossroads,” the two videos are set to music and include scenic shots of Conception. They feature a tour of the abbey grounds and interviews with students and monks.

“Our hope is that we can help the vocation directors who are working so hard in dioceses get the word out,” said Keith Jiron, CSC’s director of recruitment and admissions. “One of the best selling points for Conception is a personal visit. But we realize that not everyone can get here right away, so the videos and the brochures offer a taste of seminary and monastery life.”

Jiron added that deciding on a vocation can be an anxious time in a young man’s life. There is a certain fear of the unknown.

“We simply want to clear up any misconceptions,” he said, “and let these guys know that Conception is an inviting place where they can find some answers.”

Father Albert Bruecken, vocation director for Conception Abbey’s monastic community, says too often religious vocations are overlooked in our culture.

“There are not many people channeling young people toward religious life,” he said. “If you are good at math, your ACT or SAT scores and grades will show that. If you’re good at music, you can go to a music school. But if you are interested in being a monk or priest, where do you go? Well, we are one of those places.”

One of the most important responsibilities of vocation work is to invite young men to listen to God’s call within their heart.

“Now,” says Father Albert, “we have an attractive, professionally produced way to extend that invitation.”

If you are interested in the priesthood or monastic life – or if you know someone who is — and would like to receive a video or brochure, please call (660) 944-2886, or send an e-mail to vocations@conception.edu.

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