18 May Recent Updates on the MBCE-MHVC – May 2021
May 18, 2021
Dear Marists of Champagnat,
Blessings to each of you. I just wanted to give you a few updates in regard to our Marist Brothers Center in Esopus.
First, and foremost, I want to make you aware that the MBCE has begun to slowly open up again for Retreat Programs. This is a great blessing, not only for our province and the MBCE, but also for all those who have the opportunity to benefit from the programs held at our province center. Likewise, the Mid-Hudson Valley Camps will open this summer in a scaled down format due to the ongoing restrictions of Covid-19. Our hope is that the MBCE will continue to play a vital role in the province’s mission of evangelization and that all our ministries will continue to utilize and enjoy the beautiful gift of this property. The Esopus property has always been dedicated to young people and we remain steadfast in our desire for this to continue.
Secondly, as you may know, Mr. Jim Raimo will soon be retiring as the Executive Director of the MBCE. We are grateful for his contributions over the past two years and wish him only the best in his retirement. A Search Committee has been established composed of Bryan Doran, Kerry McCormack, Barry Donnelly, Br. Hank Hammer and Br. Owen Ormsby. Chaired by Bryan Doran, the committee will soon begin the process of securing future leadership for the MBCE.
In the interim, Mr. Jim Sheldon will serve as the Director of the Mid-Hudson Valley Camp for the upcoming summer season. We are incredibly thankful to Jim for his willingness to take on this extra responsibility as Director. We know he will do a phenomenal job. Steeped in our Marist charism, Jim knows every aspect of the job from his experience of working and assisting the Camps each summer for many years.
We wish Jim Sheldon and all the Camp Directors, Staff and volunteers our sincere prayers and best wishes. We are most grateful for the dedicated work they will perform this upcoming summer. We are secure in our belief that their work will impact the lives of the many campers who enjoy the Mid- Hudson Valley Camps.
Sincerely,
Brother Daniel O’Riordan, FMS
Provincial Chairperson
Marist Brothers USA Province
Mr. Bryan Doran
MBCE Board