It's not just a summer camp
Camp Gray is busy throughout year with programs for all ages

BARABOO -- As soon as a big yellow bus or the lead car of a chaperone caravan pulls into the driveway, the camp radios crackle to life. "The group is here!"

To learn more The Retreats Showcase will be held at Camp Gray on Thursday, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for teachers, principals, directors of religious education, youth ministers, parents, and those interested in learning more about the programs Camp Gray offers during the school year. Lunch will be provided. Individuals can also learn more about the year-round programs at Camp Gray by visiting www.campgray.com or calling 1-800-711-4729.

The Camp Gray retreat team rushes to the parking lot to meet the new visitors and begin their next retreat. The team's excitement is mirrored by the kids, chaperones, and group leaders who have come to Camp Gray for a mix of education, spiritual growth, and fun. This scene is played out repeatedly during the fall, spring, and even the winter months.

"Many people are surprised to learn that Camp Gray operates year-round," says Program Director Rebecca Hoeben. "We offer a wide variety of programs for school groups, religious education programs, youth groups, and individuals throughout the entire school-year."

Camp Gray retreat programs

The retreat team provides environmental stewardship, team building, leadership, and spiritual retreats. These are usually one, two, or three-day experiences, available both during the week and over weekends. Camp Gray has three winterized lodging facilities and meal service is also offered.   Full story ...

Silent No More
Abortion's toll on the soul of America

	Post-abortion healing The Diocese of Madison, Office of Justice and Pastoral Outreach, promotes post-abortion healing through Project Rachel and special retreats. The next Rachel's Vineyard retreat will be on April 11 to 13, 2008. For further information, call the Confidential Help Line at 608-821-3177 or e-mail HelpForYou@straphael.org

As the 35th anniversary of the Supreme Court decision Roe vs. Wade approaches, women and men who have suffered in silence are courageously speaking out.

On Wednesday, Jan. 16, all are invited to join in prayer at 9:30 a.m. in the State Capitol Rotunda, followed by the sharing of personal histories in Room 417N from 10 a.m. until 12 noon. A box lunch will be provided to attendees.

Jane Frantz, volunteer regional coordinator for Silent No More, a national abortion awareness campaign and support network, says, "Not all women regret their abortion, but many do and we suffer in silence because of the stigma attached to the issue."   Full story ...

St. Jude Parish centennial
Plans underway for joyous celebration

BELOIT -- To ensure that their parish centennial will be celebrated with joyous, meaningful activities, the St. Jude 100th Anniversary Steering Committee and nine subcommittees have been meeting, setting goals, and making plans since February 2005.

At that time, longtime parishioner, Rita Macewicz, was elected chair of the steering committee. Also elected were Sarajane Crave, recorder, and Fran Fruzen, treasurer.

Centennial slogan, logo

The steering committee chose "St. Jude Parish - A Century of Catholic Faith and Service," for its centennial slogan. Dan Mackey, a member of the public relations subcommittee and a graphic artist, designed the centennial logo.

The logo features the centennial slogan surrounding a ring that encircles a sketch of St. Jude Church. "It draws attention to the combined accomplishments of parishioners throughout our 10-decade history," explained Macewicz.   Full story ...