Fr. Robert Pecotte

On February 8, the Knights participated in the annual Shrine Employee Retreat. The retreat master for this year’s retreat was Fr. Robert Pecotte of the Diocese of Fargo, ND. Father gave the Knights and the employees three conferences that focused on Jesus’ words “Learn from Me, for I am meek and humble of heart.” Father provided rich insights into what true meekness and humility are. It was obvious that these insights flowed from his deep personal life of prayer. The retreat closed with a Holy Hour and Benediction in the Shrine’s Lower Church. We thank Father for taking time out of his busy schedule to afford us this time of retreat.

In May Br. Michael Mary graduated from Holy Apostles College in Cromwell, Connecticut. After four years of dedicated studies, he received his B.A. in Philosophy. Along with his parents and siblings, Br. David and Br. Laurence were in attendance as he walked to receive his diploma. Congratulations, Br. Michael!

Two thousand eleven saw us complete more finishing work on our Maria, Turris Davidica (Mary, Tower of David) Chapel. Among other improvements, we received new hand-carved statues of Our Lady of Fatima and the Divine Child Jesus. The many murals that adorn the chapel were completed and now add a stunning touch. In 2012 we will be installing three new stained glass windows depicting the Annunciation, the Finding of the Child Jesus in the Temple, and the Wedding Feast of Cana. Thank you to all who have helped make this Chapel a fitting dwelling place for Jesus, Our Eucharistic King.

Through the instrumentality and support of Bishop Robert J. Baker, Bishop of Birmingham, the Lourdes Grotto at the Shrine was gifted with an indulgence for those who visit it. Also, His Excellency was able to obtain permission for this diocese to celebrate the first liturgical memorial of Bl. John Paul II on October 22.

A couple of years ago, Comunita Cenacolo was able to open a house in Hanceville due to the diligent efforts of Bishop Baker, who as a priest assisted in opening Cenacolo house in St. Augustine, Florida. The Knights joined the men of Cenacolo for various events during the year (softball, pizza, soccer, etc.). It is always a blessing to visit with Bishop Baker and the Cenacolo Community.

We continue to expand our promotional efforts, thanks to the work of JonMarc, our webmaster/consultant, and Kevin, our Internet marketing expert/consultant. Two thousand eleven saw the launch of our Knights of the Holy Eucharist Facebook page and other promotional ventures. On our website we added a section on the Holy Eucharist, which we hope to expand so that it becomes a viable and vibrant resource for all things Eucharistic.

This past July 25^th we celebrated the 13^th Anniversary of the Knights’ founding. On that day we were honored to have a Filipino Bishop offer Mass for us in our Chapel. We played volleyball, swam in the river which surrounds the Shrine property, barbecued, and roasted marshmallows. We also spent an hour reflecting back on the early years of the Community.

For recreation on October 3, the vigil of the Solemnity of St. Francis, the Knights went to see “Courageous,” an amazing movie about fatherhood. As a community we thoroughly enjoyed the movie and highly recommend it—the DVD was released earlier this month.

We thank the good Lord for His continuously generous Providence. He has used many of you to manifest this Providence and we ask him to bless you for your cooperation. Have a great 2012!

Each year over 200 consecrated men enjoy the beautiful accommodations provided free of charge at the residence of the Knights of the Holy Eucharist. During their time at the Shrine, priests, deacons, brothers, and seminarians are able to spend time in personal prayer, walk through the rolling hills, and attend or celebrate Mass either in the Knights’ private chapel or at the Shrine.

Nestled just a short walk from the Shrine, “The Barn,” a modern building with a rustic look, has twelve fully furnished guest rooms with private baths and a beautiful private chapel for prayer and Mass. These beautiful retreat accommodations are available free of charge. Hospitality is provided by the Knights, and all meals are complimentary. During their stay, our guests are allowed to join community activities.

Come see us and enjoy a restful personal retreat at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, located in the peaceful countryside of northern Alabama. For more information, visit us at www.priestretreat.com.

Castle San Miguel after a snowfall

Greetings from the Knights in this new year! We hope and pray that your new year will be filled to overflowing with graces from our loving Lord. We will be praying for you during 2012 (and always!).

Last year at this time we had snow on the ground from our big snow (well, it was big for the South, anyway!). If you missed it last year, you can read our post here.

Br. John Mary is dubbed a Knight of the Holy Eucharist.

It is with great joy that the Knights of the Holy Eucharist announce the January 1st investiture of our aspirant Jess with the novice tunic as he received the name Br. John Mary, Defender of the Divine Mysteries. Fr. Shenan Boquet officiated at the ceremony and gave a moving reflection and exhortation on the life of service in which the Knights are called to lovingly and courageously persevere. Br. John Mary is one of the Shrine’s sacristans and his new title, Defender of the Divine Mysteries, alludes to this dignified role. Please pray for him as he begins this new stage of his formation.

We are grateful for your prayers and support during 2011. May God reward you!

The Shrine at night

January 1, 8:00 A.M.: Holy Mass

January 1, 10:00 A.M: Holy Mass (Lower Church)

No evening Benediction.

The Knights wish you a blessed New Year!