May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
There is much to be thankful in this holiday season and the beginning of Advent. We are blessed with many gifts, but anticipate the ultimate gift on Christmas morning of the Word become flesh. Of all the guests you prepare for this season, remember it is His presence upon which we wait.
Along the way there are so many signs of Christmas and the other Holidays celebrated this time of year. Christmas trees and Nativity Scenes bring warm feelings. When we see them we know what they represent. There is no mistaking their identity because they can only be a “sign” of Christmas.
I looked up the word sign and an interesting definition was there that I did not expect: “to place a mark on a document that shows identity and intent.” Although this is comparing a noun and a verb; these Christmas signs do the same thing to our soul. They show identity and intent; the identity of Christmas and the intent of celebration.
Just as when you sign a mortgage, or a check, or a marriage license; you are identifying yourself and promising your intention to buy that house, or pay that debt, or keep that covenant. By putting our name on a line we are telling the whole world, anyone with interest, that we promise to fulfill the intentions that this document contains.
It is so much easier to achieve a goal or reach a destination when there are clearly intended signs that guide our actions. What would some of us do these days without GPS in the car? Our world works better when we can show others true identity and clarity. That is what is so special about Christmas signs. We know exactly what they are and what they mean. They are guiding us to the most joyous celebration of the year and God’s intent for salvation of the entire world.
Look for these signs as you prepare this Advent. As glitzy and shiny that many may seem to be, think of where they are pointing. As a matter of fact, be a sign yourself. What parts of your Christian identity and your Christian intentions can show a fellow professional the gifts that are coming his way? Your “sign” may be the type of gifts that God needs of every one of us to bring about His Kingdom hear on earth.
Please keep your CBL membership current to allow us to focus on serving you, our community, and other professionals wanting to join us in community.
Continue to pray for those looking for work, the Catholic Business League, and Catholic Professionals everywhere.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
www.catholicbusinessleague.org
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Looking for CBL Board members
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
Our transition to the Cathedral is complete. We hosted the Anniversary Mass there in September and our Prayer Breakfast in October. The Cathedral allows for access to the CBL by professionals from all around the Diocese. As well, it provides the opportunity for folks to attend a weekday Mass (7am); usually difficult for a busy Catholic Professional.
Our focus for the upcoming year will be leadership. The active CBL members that I know are leaders in their Parish and many other ministries in their communities. Many of them are offering more of their time for the advancement of the Catholic Business League through their Board service, Leadership Team, or other volunteering during meetings, etc. Where would our parishes, communities, and even the CBL, be without the selfless efforts of these people.
We all know that the old adage for charities is true: “20% of the people doing 80% of the work.” Well, I would like to present opportunities for these people to get involved at a higher level.
There will be two members of the Board of Directors rolling off this Fall. A Board member for the Catholic Business league carries a special trust. Members of the CBL pay considerable dues with the confidence that their funds will be stewarded wisely. Also, the goals for the CBL will require persistent attention by the Board to continue our growth and provide new direction to programs such as Mentorship and Jobs.
Attached is a document that reviews the expectations and activities of all Board Members as well as an application. Spend some time in prayerful reflection on these positions. If you know of anyone who would be a good candidate, please forward a nomination and encourage the person to apply. If you believe this is a calling for your own hands, fill out the application, find a nominator and submit. All applications should be sent to: president@catholicbusinessleague.org
More leadership is needed in other areas of the Catholic Business League. Peter Spellman, the Events Chair, Katy Ludington, our Webmaster, and Jeremy Bisceglia, VP and Membership Chair, could all use your help. I have said this before, but it rings true always. If you want to meet people in the CBL, then get involved and take on a role. People will then want to meet you.
If you have interest in these ministries or any questions regarding getting more involved, please email info@catholicbusinessleague.org and you will be forwarded to the appropriate Chairperson.
Our yearly award is given to a Catholic Professional that exemplifies the leadership as our Vision Statement describes: To connect, develop, and inspire Catholic Professionals to live their faith at work, at home, and in their community. I will continue to drive the CBL membership to raise their personal standards to this level.
Remember that most members are due for renewal over the next few months. Please keep your membership current to allow us to focus on serving you, our community, and other professionals wanting to join us in community.
Please continue to pray for those looking for work, the Catholic Business League, and Catholic Professionals everywhere.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
Our transition to the Cathedral is complete. We hosted the Anniversary Mass there in September and our Prayer Breakfast in October. The Cathedral allows for access to the CBL by professionals from all around the Diocese. As well, it provides the opportunity for folks to attend a weekday Mass (7am); usually difficult for a busy Catholic Professional.
Our focus for the upcoming year will be leadership. The active CBL members that I know are leaders in their Parish and many other ministries in their communities. Many of them are offering more of their time for the advancement of the Catholic Business League through their Board service, Leadership Team, or other volunteering during meetings, etc. Where would our parishes, communities, and even the CBL, be without the selfless efforts of these people.
We all know that the old adage for charities is true: “20% of the people doing 80% of the work.” Well, I would like to present opportunities for these people to get involved at a higher level.
There will be two members of the Board of Directors rolling off this Fall. A Board member for the Catholic Business league carries a special trust. Members of the CBL pay considerable dues with the confidence that their funds will be stewarded wisely. Also, the goals for the CBL will require persistent attention by the Board to continue our growth and provide new direction to programs such as Mentorship and Jobs.
Attached is a document that reviews the expectations and activities of all Board Members as well as an application. Spend some time in prayerful reflection on these positions. If you know of anyone who would be a good candidate, please forward a nomination and encourage the person to apply. If you believe this is a calling for your own hands, fill out the application, find a nominator and submit. All applications should be sent to: president@catholicbusinessleague.org
More leadership is needed in other areas of the Catholic Business League. Peter Spellman, the Events Chair, Katy Ludington, our Webmaster, and Jeremy Bisceglia, VP and Membership Chair, could all use your help. I have said this before, but it rings true always. If you want to meet people in the CBL, then get involved and take on a role. People will then want to meet you.
If you have interest in these ministries or any questions regarding getting more involved, please email info@catholicbusinessleague.org and you will be forwarded to the appropriate Chairperson.
Our yearly award is given to a Catholic Professional that exemplifies the leadership as our Vision Statement describes: To connect, develop, and inspire Catholic Professionals to live their faith at work, at home, and in their community. I will continue to drive the CBL membership to raise their personal standards to this level.
Remember that most members are due for renewal over the next few months. Please keep your membership current to allow us to focus on serving you, our community, and other professionals wanting to join us in community.
Please continue to pray for those looking for work, the Catholic Business League, and Catholic Professionals everywhere.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Catholic Professional of the Year 2010
CATHOLIC BUSINESS LEAGUE GIVES ANNUAL AWARD TO BILL SINCLAIR of
CATHOLIC CHARITIES of TENNESSEE
This year’s “Catholic Professional of the Year” was be honored at the CBL Anniversary Mass on September 9th.
The 2010 recipient of the “Catholic Professional of the Year” is Bill Sinclair, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of Tennessee. Bill’s lifelong example of service and sacrifice exemplifies the vision of the Catholic Business League; “To connect, develop, and inspire Catholic Professionals to live their faith at work, at home, and in their community.”
Bill Sinclair has served at Catholic Charities of Tennessee, Inc. since 1975; being named Executive Director in 1986. A short list of his initiatives could be: overseeing the development of Villa Maria Manor, serving on the Mayor’s Poverty Council, and in March 2010 hosting a National Poverty Summit at Belmont University in partnership with CCUSA. The real list would be too long to place here.
Besides his lifetime of work for this Non-Profit, which would be reason to award Bill every year, in this year of 2010 he deserves special recognition.
Through his leadership, Catholic Charities immediately responded to the needs of those who lost their homes in the May 2 Nashville flood. Together community leaders and United Way, they opened a Distribution Center in Bellevue with a staff of case workers and others who are providing aid to flood victims. During the month of July alone over 1,100 families have been served at the Distribution Center.
The award was given at the Cathedral of the Incarnation on Thursday morning, September 9th at 7:00am when we celebrated Holy Mass and prayed for this worthy Catholic Professional of the Year, the Catholic Business League, and the mission they support.
# # # # #
You can find out more at: www.CatholicBusinessLeague.org
You can find out more at: www.cctenn.org
"State of the Catholic Business League 2010"
To: Members of the Catholic Business League and Friends
From: Greg Mays, President, Catholic Business League
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
Two years ago, from this past summer, a "Steering Committee" was gathered at Holy Family in Brentwood with attendees from several different Parishes south of Nashville. The initial plans were to be called the "Catholic Business League of Williamson County". After four meetings of the committee the mission became clearer. We held the first Prayer Breakfast in October 2008. (The anniversary has been held in September because that is when we were incorporated)
In the first few months we attracted almost one hundred members from around the Diocese, although most from Williamson County. Most of these folks are now identified as Founding Members because they put their support behind us from the beginning. We are now about 200 members strong and becoming more regional each month.
Halfway through the first year the Board of Directors met for a couple of long sessions to refine the Mission Statement of the Catholic Business League. There were many varied reasons for each Director to join. The result has become our mission that gives strong focus for all of the energies of the CBL :
Fellowship: You must admit, if you have been at one of the Prayer Breakfasts, the engagement that goes on between Catholic Professionals is unique to a group such as this. There is genuine sharing that happens, more than just networking. True relationships are made: Christian Ministry in action. Most months we must ask people to leave, who are still talking, so we can close down the room.
Catechesis: Through the many diverse speakers that have spoken to the League we strive to be taught by Catholic Professionals. We want to learn about our faith and the wonderful Catholic Community around us. From Steve Hayes, who described designing his business around his faith, to Fr. Baker, who celebrated the Vandy Catholic Ministry, we have learned much. As a matter of fact, each "Catholic Professional of the Year" recipient was a speaker in the year before.
Service: Since early in our founding we have established a Jobs Ministry. This consists of a jobs board on the website for resumes and job listings. There is also a periodic email sent out with Prayer requests and links to the listings and resumes. There is also a Mentorship Ministry that has been developed and is being tested this fall. This effort will connect college students with CBL members to provide coaching and connections in a particular profession. These ministries show our commitment to paying back the community in which we live and serve.
Philanthropy: I hope that you saw our demonstration of this last month at the anniversary event. Our $4000 donation to the EACS Foundation (Endowment for the Advancement of Catholic Schools) will go to help needy families afford to keep there children in Catholic Education. This is double our donation last year and promises to develop a tradition of giving that will represent the Catholic Business League for many years to come.
The largest development in our short two-year history is the change in location. From this point forward the Catholic Business League will meet at the Cathedral of the Incarnation. This decision did not come about lightly. The Board of Directors (half of which live in Williamson County) voted unanimously to support the move. The belief is that we have become a Diocesan Ministry and need to be accessible for Professionals from all over our region.
I thank our Lord for blessing me with the opportunity that I have been given to serve you and the Catholic Professionals around us. I continue to ask for His help living up to these blessings.
Please continue to pray for those looking for work, the Catholic Business League, and Catholic Professionals everywhere.
From: Greg Mays, President, Catholic Business League
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
Two years ago, from this past summer, a "Steering Committee" was gathered at Holy Family in Brentwood with attendees from several different Parishes south of Nashville. The initial plans were to be called the "Catholic Business League of Williamson County". After four meetings of the committee the mission became clearer. We held the first Prayer Breakfast in October 2008. (The anniversary has been held in September because that is when we were incorporated)
In the first few months we attracted almost one hundred members from around the Diocese, although most from Williamson County. Most of these folks are now identified as Founding Members because they put their support behind us from the beginning. We are now about 200 members strong and becoming more regional each month.
Halfway through the first year the Board of Directors met for a couple of long sessions to refine the Mission Statement of the Catholic Business League. There were many varied reasons for each Director to join. The result has become our mission that gives strong focus for all of the energies of the CBL :
"Providing opportunities for Catholic Professionals to engage in fellowship,
catechesis, service, & philanthropy."
catechesis, service, & philanthropy."
Fellowship: You must admit, if you have been at one of the Prayer Breakfasts, the engagement that goes on between Catholic Professionals is unique to a group such as this. There is genuine sharing that happens, more than just networking. True relationships are made: Christian Ministry in action. Most months we must ask people to leave, who are still talking, so we can close down the room.
Catechesis: Through the many diverse speakers that have spoken to the League we strive to be taught by Catholic Professionals. We want to learn about our faith and the wonderful Catholic Community around us. From Steve Hayes, who described designing his business around his faith, to Fr. Baker, who celebrated the Vandy Catholic Ministry, we have learned much. As a matter of fact, each "Catholic Professional of the Year" recipient was a speaker in the year before.
Service: Since early in our founding we have established a Jobs Ministry. This consists of a jobs board on the website for resumes and job listings. There is also a periodic email sent out with Prayer requests and links to the listings and resumes. There is also a Mentorship Ministry that has been developed and is being tested this fall. This effort will connect college students with CBL members to provide coaching and connections in a particular profession. These ministries show our commitment to paying back the community in which we live and serve.
Philanthropy: I hope that you saw our demonstration of this last month at the anniversary event. Our $4000 donation to the EACS Foundation (Endowment for the Advancement of Catholic Schools) will go to help needy families afford to keep there children in Catholic Education. This is double our donation last year and promises to develop a tradition of giving that will represent the Catholic Business League for many years to come.
The largest development in our short two-year history is the change in location. From this point forward the Catholic Business League will meet at the Cathedral of the Incarnation. This decision did not come about lightly. The Board of Directors (half of which live in Williamson County) voted unanimously to support the move. The belief is that we have become a Diocesan Ministry and need to be accessible for Professionals from all over our region.
I thank our Lord for blessing me with the opportunity that I have been given to serve you and the Catholic Professionals around us. I continue to ask for His help living up to these blessings.
Please continue to pray for those looking for work, the Catholic Business League, and Catholic Professionals everywhere.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
To: Members of the Catholic Business League and Friends
From: Greg Mays, President, Catholic Business League
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
The time of year is coming to nominate someone for the Catholic Professional of the Year award given at the Anniversary Mass in September. Last year the inaugural award was given to Jim McIntyre, President of Father Ryan High School. Nominations for this year’s award will be taken up until the Board of Directors meeting on August 24th. Email them to info@catholicbusinessleague.org
The Catholic Professional of the year is someone who embodies the vision statement of the Catholic Business League in all aspects of their life. The vision of the CBL is:
“To connect, develop, and inspire Catholic Professionals
to live their faith at work, at home, and in their community.”
To Connect: We are called to go out into the world and engage. We cannot do business in a silo or on an island. We must connect with our fellow professionals and find areas of common benefit. Without the basis of Christ’s teaching this falls apart and becomes a battle, not cooperation. This person should be one who is engaged in the world and connected with all types of people; using their faith as a guide.
To develop: All of us started at the bottom. Nobody got their current position in life without the help of someone else. As Catholic Professionals we must pay it forward. It is up to us to keep our hearts open to the opportunities to assist, teach, mentor, any of those around us that we can. This person should utilize their value, both actively and through example, to develop other parts of Christ’s Body.
To inspire: What really motivates a person? It could be money, power, love; in everyone it can be different. I believe true inspiration comes from true goodness. We see others doing the hard things like: counseling the jobless, serving on committees and in ministries, choosing careers that are not the most glamorous or high paid. We are inspired when we see peace on their face. It is evident that this is true goodness and we desire more for ourselves. This person should be an inspiration to all around them, evidenced by the many that follow their lead.
After prayerful reflection, please submit a nomination that demonstrates the embodiment of these ideals. The Catholic Professional of the Year is not limited to the members of the Catholic Business league, or even Catholics. There are many individuals across Middle Tennessee that would be worthy candidates to honor in this manner.
Join us for the next Prayer Breakfast at the Martin Center in Brentwood on August 12th. Our speaker will be Pat Nolan, Senior VP of DVL Public Relations.
Please remember to renew your membership in the Catholic Business League. It is by your support that we are able to come together as a community.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
From: Greg Mays, President, Catholic Business League
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
The time of year is coming to nominate someone for the Catholic Professional of the Year award given at the Anniversary Mass in September. Last year the inaugural award was given to Jim McIntyre, President of Father Ryan High School. Nominations for this year’s award will be taken up until the Board of Directors meeting on August 24th. Email them to info@catholicbusinessleague.org
The Catholic Professional of the year is someone who embodies the vision statement of the Catholic Business League in all aspects of their life. The vision of the CBL is:
“To connect, develop, and inspire Catholic Professionals
to live their faith at work, at home, and in their community.”
To Connect: We are called to go out into the world and engage. We cannot do business in a silo or on an island. We must connect with our fellow professionals and find areas of common benefit. Without the basis of Christ’s teaching this falls apart and becomes a battle, not cooperation. This person should be one who is engaged in the world and connected with all types of people; using their faith as a guide.
To develop: All of us started at the bottom. Nobody got their current position in life without the help of someone else. As Catholic Professionals we must pay it forward. It is up to us to keep our hearts open to the opportunities to assist, teach, mentor, any of those around us that we can. This person should utilize their value, both actively and through example, to develop other parts of Christ’s Body.
To inspire: What really motivates a person? It could be money, power, love; in everyone it can be different. I believe true inspiration comes from true goodness. We see others doing the hard things like: counseling the jobless, serving on committees and in ministries, choosing careers that are not the most glamorous or high paid. We are inspired when we see peace on their face. It is evident that this is true goodness and we desire more for ourselves. This person should be an inspiration to all around them, evidenced by the many that follow their lead.
After prayerful reflection, please submit a nomination that demonstrates the embodiment of these ideals. The Catholic Professional of the Year is not limited to the members of the Catholic Business league, or even Catholics. There are many individuals across Middle Tennessee that would be worthy candidates to honor in this manner.
Join us for the next Prayer Breakfast at the Martin Center in Brentwood on August 12th. Our speaker will be Pat Nolan, Senior VP of DVL Public Relations.
Please remember to renew your membership in the Catholic Business League. It is by your support that we are able to come together as a community.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
Saturday, July 3, 2010
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
I hope everyone had a great Father’s Day last Weekend. I enjoyed hanging out with my three daughters and having a nice conversation with my Dad. It got me to thinking about fatherhood. What a responsibility. What Pressure. But, for what purpose?
Jim McIntyre, President of Father Ryan High School, presented to the CBL last year. He spoke of their mission to create “good” kids. Our society and the livelihoods of those around us are only safe when we are producing kids, future adults, that are good. This applies to parenthood in perfect parallel.
Do we want our kids to just be happy? Rich? Famous? Does that give them peace and challenge them to affect their world. No, we are to teach them humility, service, sacrifice, selflessness. There’s no guaranteed happiness or big money here. But, it is how Christ taught us to be. If we just teach them as Christ teaches us then there can be no greater good created on earth.
In many of his talks Fr. Larry Richards tells parents: “Your number one job is to get your children and your spouse to Heaven. It is my job to get my flock to Heaven and it is your job, it is your vocation to get your family to Heaven.” More pressure; to be a spiritual leader?
One interesting practice came to me from Deacon John Krenson at the ‘The Highest Call” Men’s Conference a couple of years ago. He spoke of a friend growing up whose father would bless him every time he left the house. Many times it was annoying to his friend and embarrassing. But, when he went off to basic training, his friend ran back into the house to make sure his father blessed him before leaving. I have taken up that habit and bless my girls every night before bed. Now, they even remind me when I am distracted. What a bond and gift this has become for us.
This should be the same bond that we should have with our spiritual leaders in the church. The Priests, Deacons, Religious sisters, etc. that give their lives away serve those around them; to get every one else into Heaven! At the end of every Mass the Priest gives a blessing to the congregation. Accept this blessing with respect and appreciation of what it means. It means you are called to do in your “church” what he is doing in our Church.
It is appropriate that, just after Father’s Day, we are hosting Bishop Choby and many of the Seminarians from the Diocese of Nashville to the next CBL Prayer Breakfast. Please join us to meet and celebrate the men that will some day be serving the flocks in our diocese. The date is July 8th. Please invite a friend that has not been before.
A couple of community announcements:
CBL members are invited to attend a breakfast to honor Fr. William Bevington on Thursday, July 29, 7:30 a.m., at Father Ryan High School, hosted by Visitation Hospital Foundation. Fr. Bevington has been a hue supporter of our work in Haiti over the past 8 years and we want to honor him for all he has done to support VHF's work to alleviate suffering by providing health care and health education. Contact Fran Rajotte at 615/673-3501 to RSVP or email at VisitationHF@aol.com
Visitation Hospital Foundation is looking for golfers to serve on a core team committee to plan a golf tournament fundraiser. We need 10 committed people who will promise to form two golf teams each. If interested, please call Fran Rajotte at 615/673-3501 or email her at VisitationHF@aol.com
Please remember to renew your membership in the Catholic Business League. It is by your support that we are able to come together as a community.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Catholic Charities Summit Offers Hope for Our Community
The Catholic Professional
March 29, 2010
Imagine an event with folks from all sides of the political spectrum. A place where you have business people, ministry leaders, social workers, etc. in the same room; coming together to solve problems, locally. And, although caustic issues arose, they were presented in a thoughtful and appropriate tone.
This is what I experienced last Thursday (3/25) at the Catholic Charities USA Centennial Leadership Summit in Nashville. The day at Belmont University’s Curb Event Center (where the presidential debate was held) began with a morning breakfast for community leaders where local ministries were highlighted. People stood and described their view of the causes and possible remedies to poverty.
There was one woman who spoke of the need to assist with the $75 test fee for the GED. Many people will complete the courses but not take the test for the cost.
A great discussion ensued and topics ranged from mental illness treatment to communicating better in the new media. (To be honest, it was I who suggested that if everyone in that room had posted something about the Summit on Facebook, 10,000 people would have seen it.) Someone also explained the drastic effect this economy has had on the white-collar class. It is something we experience in the Catholic Business League every month.
The day continued with a larger event that started with the introduction of many of the dignitaries present including: Mayor Karl Dean, Bishop Choby of the Diocese of Nashville, and the Rev. Larry Snyder, President of Catholic Charities, USA.
In his keynote address, Fr. Snyder challenged the crowd to strive for ideas, for solutions that do not come from Washington, while keeping the political will to work for justice. In support he quoted Archbishop Ireland in saying, “Turn to the future. Our own, our work…. as we will it…so shall the story be.”
After a time of prayer and song, a panel was introduced that was moderated by Pat Nolan, Sr. VP of Dye, Van Mol, & Lawrence Public Relations. Mr. Nolan is a long-standing figure in the media here in Nashville in many capacities. The panel included John Seigenthaler, Sr., President of the HCA Foundation Joanne Pulles, and Daniel Cornfield, Professor of Sociology and Political Science at Vanderbilt.
Mr. Nolan posed discussion questions that ranged from healthcare reform to the systemic problems that surround poverty. The three panelists, coming from different perspectives, did a fine job of expanding everyone’s understanding of these issues. The last 30 minutes was open for questions that came from the audience. This session provided some lively political perspectives that were as varied as the diverse audience in the room. It felt like a true “Town Hall Forum”.
All of this provoked such an animated discussion over lunch and the period following. CCUSA announced three grant award winners that were able to tell of their success stories. We were then tasked with table discussions following their presentations. This, again, provided for some lively debate. There were people at my table that were from completely different backgrounds than me. How eye opening. We found agreement on the majority of questions proposed.
The overriding message that I received from the day is this: that local, personal ministry organizations work best. As soon as you get Washington involved or expect Washington to come to the rescue, you are lost.
I was so encouraged to see the community that is Nashville come together for such a good cause; and productive discussions. I was excited to see the Nashville Corporate Community represented so well by HCA (my employer). I am at peace to know there is so much energy in our town to work for the goal set forward by Catholic Charities USA: to reduce poverty by 50% by 2020.
We can, with honest and transparent discussion and forthright determination, reach that goal. It is Jesus Christ’s challenge to us. And I know how Catholic Professionals respond to a challenge
Please visit our website at www.catholicbusinessleague.org
March 29, 2010
Imagine an event with folks from all sides of the political spectrum. A place where you have business people, ministry leaders, social workers, etc. in the same room; coming together to solve problems, locally. And, although caustic issues arose, they were presented in a thoughtful and appropriate tone.
This is what I experienced last Thursday (3/25) at the Catholic Charities USA Centennial Leadership Summit in Nashville. The day at Belmont University’s Curb Event Center (where the presidential debate was held) began with a morning breakfast for community leaders where local ministries were highlighted. People stood and described their view of the causes and possible remedies to poverty.
There was one woman who spoke of the need to assist with the $75 test fee for the GED. Many people will complete the courses but not take the test for the cost.
A great discussion ensued and topics ranged from mental illness treatment to communicating better in the new media. (To be honest, it was I who suggested that if everyone in that room had posted something about the Summit on Facebook, 10,000 people would have seen it.) Someone also explained the drastic effect this economy has had on the white-collar class. It is something we experience in the Catholic Business League every month.
The day continued with a larger event that started with the introduction of many of the dignitaries present including: Mayor Karl Dean, Bishop Choby of the Diocese of Nashville, and the Rev. Larry Snyder, President of Catholic Charities, USA.
In his keynote address, Fr. Snyder challenged the crowd to strive for ideas, for solutions that do not come from Washington, while keeping the political will to work for justice. In support he quoted Archbishop Ireland in saying, “Turn to the future. Our own, our work…. as we will it…so shall the story be.”
After a time of prayer and song, a panel was introduced that was moderated by Pat Nolan, Sr. VP of Dye, Van Mol, & Lawrence Public Relations. Mr. Nolan is a long-standing figure in the media here in Nashville in many capacities. The panel included John Seigenthaler, Sr., President of the HCA Foundation Joanne Pulles, and Daniel Cornfield, Professor of Sociology and Political Science at Vanderbilt.
Mr. Nolan posed discussion questions that ranged from healthcare reform to the systemic problems that surround poverty. The three panelists, coming from different perspectives, did a fine job of expanding everyone’s understanding of these issues. The last 30 minutes was open for questions that came from the audience. This session provided some lively political perspectives that were as varied as the diverse audience in the room. It felt like a true “Town Hall Forum”.
All of this provoked such an animated discussion over lunch and the period following. CCUSA announced three grant award winners that were able to tell of their success stories. We were then tasked with table discussions following their presentations. This, again, provided for some lively debate. There were people at my table that were from completely different backgrounds than me. How eye opening. We found agreement on the majority of questions proposed.
The overriding message that I received from the day is this: that local, personal ministry organizations work best. As soon as you get Washington involved or expect Washington to come to the rescue, you are lost.
I was so encouraged to see the community that is Nashville come together for such a good cause; and productive discussions. I was excited to see the Nashville Corporate Community represented so well by HCA (my employer). I am at peace to know there is so much energy in our town to work for the goal set forward by Catholic Charities USA: to reduce poverty by 50% by 2020.
We can, with honest and transparent discussion and forthright determination, reach that goal. It is Jesus Christ’s challenge to us. And I know how Catholic Professionals respond to a challenge
Please visit our website at www.catholicbusinessleague.org
Sunday, March 21, 2010
President's Letter for Lent
To: Members of the Catholic Business League and Friends
From: Greg Mays, President, Catholic Business League
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
I hope that this letter finds you well in this Holy Season of Lent. During this time we are called to focus on three areas of our lives: prayer, penitence, and almsgiving. That can seem like quite a long list in the busy world in which we live. How can we be expected to take our eye off the “ball” that is work and supporting our family? I submit to you: it is these very actions the church encourages that can enable us to better see and serve that “ball” that is our life.
I have come up with a few suggestions that you may be able to use:
PRAYER
Say some prayers in your car on the way to work. Depending on the length of your drive, you can say a novena, decade of the rosary, or the whole thing. At least turn off the radio and talk, no listen, to God.
PENITENCE
What can you do in your professional life to carry a cross for another? There must be someone who has screwed up or been dealt a bad hand. What can you do to help? It’s gonna be difficult, it may even hurt you a bit. That’s where the whole cross thing comes in.
ALMSGIVING
Beyond the help you can give through monetary donations, you can give your time. What about offering to have lunch or coffee with that person you know who is looking for a job? You don’t have to find them a job. Just lend an ear and a prayer and you will be giving them more than a salary could give.
There are other opportunities to get involved and deepen your faith during Lent. Next week Catholic Charities of Middle Tennessee is hosting a Centennial Leadership Summit on Thursday, March 25th at Belmont University. Please come join a community discussion on eliminating poverty. You can register at: http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/Page.aspx?pid=1977
There is also a business leaders breakfast that morning for those that cannot attend the day. Email the national chapter for an invitation. Contact Ann Seely at ASeely@catholiccharitiesusa.org
Also, next Saturday 3/27 is the Catholic Women of Faith Conference. Sherri Isham has put together another great program this year. The Men’s conference moved hearts and this promises to be the same. Men, watch the kids for they day and give your wife time for that renewal. Women, you will not be disappointed
www.catholicwomenoffaithconference.com
Don’t forget to mark you calendar for next month’s Prayer Breakfast. April 8th Fr. Ed Steiner, Rector of the Cathedral of the Incarnation, will tell us about his story and the position of the beautiful sanctuary that is our bishop’s chair. Register at:
www.catholicbusinessleague.org
Please remember to renew your membership in the Catholic Business League. It is by your support that we are able to come together as a community.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
From: Greg Mays, President, Catholic Business League
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
I hope that this letter finds you well in this Holy Season of Lent. During this time we are called to focus on three areas of our lives: prayer, penitence, and almsgiving. That can seem like quite a long list in the busy world in which we live. How can we be expected to take our eye off the “ball” that is work and supporting our family? I submit to you: it is these very actions the church encourages that can enable us to better see and serve that “ball” that is our life.
I have come up with a few suggestions that you may be able to use:
PRAYER
Say some prayers in your car on the way to work. Depending on the length of your drive, you can say a novena, decade of the rosary, or the whole thing. At least turn off the radio and talk, no listen, to God.
PENITENCE
What can you do in your professional life to carry a cross for another? There must be someone who has screwed up or been dealt a bad hand. What can you do to help? It’s gonna be difficult, it may even hurt you a bit. That’s where the whole cross thing comes in.
ALMSGIVING
Beyond the help you can give through monetary donations, you can give your time. What about offering to have lunch or coffee with that person you know who is looking for a job? You don’t have to find them a job. Just lend an ear and a prayer and you will be giving them more than a salary could give.
There are other opportunities to get involved and deepen your faith during Lent. Next week Catholic Charities of Middle Tennessee is hosting a Centennial Leadership Summit on Thursday, March 25th at Belmont University. Please come join a community discussion on eliminating poverty. You can register at: http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/Page.aspx?pid=1977
There is also a business leaders breakfast that morning for those that cannot attend the day. Email the national chapter for an invitation. Contact Ann Seely at ASeely@catholiccharitiesusa.org
Also, next Saturday 3/27 is the Catholic Women of Faith Conference. Sherri Isham has put together another great program this year. The Men’s conference moved hearts and this promises to be the same. Men, watch the kids for they day and give your wife time for that renewal. Women, you will not be disappointed
www.catholicwomenoffaithconference.com
Don’t forget to mark you calendar for next month’s Prayer Breakfast. April 8th Fr. Ed Steiner, Rector of the Cathedral of the Incarnation, will tell us about his story and the position of the beautiful sanctuary that is our bishop’s chair. Register at:
www.catholicbusinessleague.org
Please remember to renew your membership in the Catholic Business League. It is by your support that we are able to come together as a community.
I am always,
Very truly yours, in Christ
Greg Mays
president@catholicbusinessleague.org
Sunday, January 10, 2010
“He must increase, I must decrease”
St. John the Baptist
This is one of my favorite lines from John’s Gospel. It is the ultimate statement of humility; showing a true acceptance of God’s plan for his life. It is not about what I want. God knows what is best for my fellow man and me. He is saying that God must be our guide.
As professionals we are used to planning our day, our week; many are called to write business plans that look out multiple years. Most successful ventures are those that stick to the plan and follow through on the details. Companies pay consultants big money to help them set targets and give insight from an outside perspective. Even in our personal life. If we do not set goals then we can never expect to improve ourselves; and those projects and people we deal with daily.
So, how does God’s plan fit into this? It can seem quite a conundrum. How can you be expected to plan, but then leave it to God’s plan? You expect success. How can He not want that for you?
The way I gain perspective is through John’s prayer: “He must increase, I must decrease”. God does not want to plan your life. He wants to be a part of your life. He wants to be the influence in your planning process. The more you go to Him in prayer and in the Eucharist; the more God will be a partner in deciding your goals. And, what better partner could you have to advise what is best for you and those around you.
As you work through your plan, situations arise that require critical decisions to be made. Sometimes these decisions could mean success or failure. If He has increased in your life, you are more likely to make a good decision, based on what is truly best. If not, your choice will be based primarily on one thing, yourself. How do you want to affect your plan?
I have heard of some Eastern Orthodox monks that walk around, bobbing their heads, and repeating “He must increase, I must decrease” to continually focus on giving their lives over to God. Now, I am not suggesting that you stroll around the office, chanting like a monk. I am saying that you should increase him in your life. He only wants what is best for you and is here to help you on that path.
As I look back on my like, the more time I have spent time with Him in prayer and in front of the Blessed Sacrament, more often I have made good plans and decisions. They may have been tough decisions, but they were the right ones for my family and me.
Ask God to be a bigger part of your life. Ask Him to help you with your planning and decision making processes. Pray before you plan. Kneel before you make a big decision. You have the best consultant that money can buy, available to you at all times, at no cost but your time.
The Catholic Professional
St. John the Baptist
This is one of my favorite lines from John’s Gospel. It is the ultimate statement of humility; showing a true acceptance of God’s plan for his life. It is not about what I want. God knows what is best for my fellow man and me. He is saying that God must be our guide.
As professionals we are used to planning our day, our week; many are called to write business plans that look out multiple years. Most successful ventures are those that stick to the plan and follow through on the details. Companies pay consultants big money to help them set targets and give insight from an outside perspective. Even in our personal life. If we do not set goals then we can never expect to improve ourselves; and those projects and people we deal with daily.
So, how does God’s plan fit into this? It can seem quite a conundrum. How can you be expected to plan, but then leave it to God’s plan? You expect success. How can He not want that for you?
The way I gain perspective is through John’s prayer: “He must increase, I must decrease”. God does not want to plan your life. He wants to be a part of your life. He wants to be the influence in your planning process. The more you go to Him in prayer and in the Eucharist; the more God will be a partner in deciding your goals. And, what better partner could you have to advise what is best for you and those around you.
As you work through your plan, situations arise that require critical decisions to be made. Sometimes these decisions could mean success or failure. If He has increased in your life, you are more likely to make a good decision, based on what is truly best. If not, your choice will be based primarily on one thing, yourself. How do you want to affect your plan?
I have heard of some Eastern Orthodox monks that walk around, bobbing their heads, and repeating “He must increase, I must decrease” to continually focus on giving their lives over to God. Now, I am not suggesting that you stroll around the office, chanting like a monk. I am saying that you should increase him in your life. He only wants what is best for you and is here to help you on that path.
As I look back on my like, the more time I have spent time with Him in prayer and in front of the Blessed Sacrament, more often I have made good plans and decisions. They may have been tough decisions, but they were the right ones for my family and me.
Ask God to be a bigger part of your life. Ask Him to help you with your planning and decision making processes. Pray before you plan. Kneel before you make a big decision. You have the best consultant that money can buy, available to you at all times, at no cost but your time.
The Catholic Professional
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