The Holy Cross Institute (HCI) at St. Edward’s University hosted its annual convocation from 24-26 February, gathering over 300 participants on the university campus, one of its largest group of participants ever. The convocation was historic as it was the first time that representatives from the eight Holy Cross colleges and universities in the United States were present. This year also saw a record number of Holy Cross religious attending, with all four Congregations of the Holy Cross Family represented.

The theme of the Convocation—“Crossing Borders of Every Sort”—was purposely drawn from the Constitutions. Reflecting on the theme, Dr. Richard Bautch, HCI Executive Director, said that it “reflects the deeps sense of mission that has inspired Holy Cross educators—past, present, and future. As educators in the faith, we come together to explore emerging best practices, exchange valuable insights, and build connections that will help shape the future of the Holy Cross Mission both nationally and internationally.”

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As a way to reinforce the concept of crossing borders, Br. Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C., Superior General of the Congregation of Holy Cross, gave a keynote address on the Congregation’s upcoming Year of Mission. Br. Paul also solicited the support of all schools across the globe to embrace the goals set by the General Administration for this special year.

In addition to Br. Bednarczyk, the leadership of the Congregation was well represented at the convocation with the participation of Fr. Emmanuel Kallarackal, C.S.C., Vicar General and First Assistant; Br. Prodip Placid Gomes, C.S.C., Second Assistant; Fr. William Lies, C.S.C., Superior of the United States Province of Priests and Brothers; Br. Kenneth Haders, C.S.C., Superior of the Midwest Province; Fr. Rosemond Marcelin, C.S.C., Superior of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Province, and Fr. Paul Valentin, C.S.C., Superior of the Mother Province in France.

Fitting with its theme of crossing borders, the convocation also continued its growth of becoming more international, with educators from Bangladesh, Brazil, France, Ghana, and Uganda participating. Just the group from France numbered over 20.

At the closing banquet, HCI holds its annual awards ceremony. This year, Br. Bednarczyk was honored with the George Martin Leadership Award.

In addition, the late Br. Donald Blauvelt, C.S.C., was posthumously awarded the Brothers of St. Joseph Award, which was accepted by former South-West Provincial, Br. Richard Critz, C.S.C. Lastly, Sr. Reneé Daigle, M.S.C., Vicar, accepted the Legacy of Hope Award on behalf of the Marianites of Holy Cross.