This year, the Diocese of Cheyenne hosted the 2018 SWLC Study Week at Little America here in Cheyenne on January 16 through 19. Priests, deacons, religious and lay people from throughout the Southwest region and even as far away as Maryland participated in the conference. It is the second time in recent memory that this event was held in Cheyenne- the last time being in 2004.
The theme of this year’s conference was “Awaken the Voice: Sing as One to the Lord” as we marked the 10
th anniversary of
Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship (USCCB). Keynote speakers included ValLimar Jansen, Bishop Mark Seitz, Dr. Steven Janco and Carmen Florez-Mansi. ValLimar kicked off the conference challenging us all to greater participation. Her enthusiasm and energy were evident as she involved the assembled in interacting with each other in a presentation entitled “Re-awaken Your Passion For Prayer and Praise!”. Bishop Mark Seitz, reminded us of the music traditions of the universal church and what a treasure “of inestimable value” that tradition is. Dr. Janco reminded us of the importance of liturgy and gave some helpful hints of how to do it well. Carmen Florez-Mansi reminded us that we are all One through the “Richness of our Diversity”.
Bishop Steven was the celebrant for the Eucharistic Liturgy on Thursday evening. His comments were posted on his blog page. The diocesan choir led the music under the direction of Dr. Robert Belser, UW band professor.
As we move forward, the conference helped us recognize the amazing parish that we are and motivated us to continue in this path.