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Cleveland Catholic Forum Affirms Sanctity
of Marriage at Its First Speed Dating Event
Not long after the Cleveland Catholic Forum began meeting in the winter of 2004 to brainstorm on ways to reach out and engage young Catholics one of our boardmembers had an un-Orthodox suggestion in 'speed dating'. To be more precise, it was not only un-Orthodox but unheard of...none of us knew what he was talking about. When he more specifically recommended 'Catholic Speed Dating' I realized we should at least listen to what he had to say. Before the end of the night it was clear that the Lord wished us to use this type of event to do His work and leave the results up to Him. Two weeks after our February 12th event and now more than ever the affirmation that we made the right choice is clear.
Our overriding goal at the Forum is to bring young Catholics into a greater understanding and love of the Church which can only lead to surrender of heart in Her service. We accept all Catholics where they are with the promise that there is so much more to taste and see. The challenge really, is from the Holy Spirit and we merely do the necessary leg-work to bring the message to those He wants to hear it.
Our first speed dating event was well attended with over 70 young men and women from across the diocese, most unsure what the evening held in store. They came from different backgrounds but a common faith, and left after a energetic homily by host Fr. Eric Orzech and exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. In speaking with dozens who attended I heard the same words over and over: "its so hard finding a good Catholic man/woman". While the Forum is certainly not a matchmaking organization, or even a singles club, we understand fully that the life and health of the Church itself depends on healthy and holy families to speak to an unbelieving world by word and example.
Still, the desire and need to share ones faith with another in a committed Catholic marriage is very real and must always be encouraged. Very rightly we often hear about the need for more priests and nuns, and indeed the world thirsts for more of the consecrated religious, but with strong, prayerful and dedicated Catholic families I am convinced our Lord will bless the Church with an abundance of vocations. I encourage all of you to pray for your spouses even though you may not have met yet. God is preparing you and preparing your spouse for a wonderful life together in the Sacraments.
Please keep the Cleveland Catholic Forum in your prayers and keep an eye on our website for upcoming quarterly events.
Christo Servire,
Lee Jarocki
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