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Past Events

SVD Alumni Association Reunion

Erie, Pennsylvania

November 4-5, 2000

Alumni Gather in Erie
by Tom Lochner

        Twenty-two Girard veterans gathered the weekend of November 4-5 at the Avalon Hotel in Erie, Pennsylvania. We came from California, Connecticut, and points in between for two wonderful days of memories, catching up, and renewal.

        It was great to reminisce while paging through the old yearbooks together. Some of the handwritten predictions actually came true. I learned that it is essential to attend these events. If you don't show up, those who do will talk about you because you're not there to defend yourself! On this basis alone, we hope to double next year's attendance.

        The award for "Best Ex-Seminarian Story" went to Dave Edmonds of Cleveland. Dave recalled that, after leaving the sem, he was so nervous on his first date that he genuflected in the aisle of the movie theater!

        On Sunday morning, we drove to the beautiful Queen Of Americas Church in Conneaut Lake for Mass and brunch with alumnus Fr. Steve Anderson. What a great host.

        We were spiritually and emotionally nourished at this reunion. Many of us last saw each other as teenagers. Now we met as men, to talk, laugh, listen, share and pray.

        Thirty years, and more for some, have passed. We have all taken various paths in our education, careers, family life and faith. These reunions remind us how much we have in common. Long ago, we experienced a way of life with people who were totally committed doing what is right, giving it a full effort, and having a heck of a lot of fun the whole time. The reunion was another step for each of us in this life journey. The Alumni Association continues this ministry, and I am grateful.

Attendees: