Two weekends ago, we had over thirty men - brothers, captains, and fathers - venture into the wilds of Pegram, Tennessee. Between the firearms and marksmanship training, hikes to the peaks of a mountain, football games, and capture the flag, we were not lacking in physical intensity. Between talks on manhood and chastity around a campfire, opportunities for prayer (including the mountaintop rosary), and beginning the day with the Holy Sacrifice of Mass, we were not lacking in spiritual intensity either.

I suppose this “intensity” in all things is what I love most about FRATERNUS. It is simply the philosophy and pedagogy of St. John Bosco, who is renowned for his 19th century work with young men in Turin, Italy. They ran around playing soccer and other sports until they were covered in mud and sweat. They subsequently went into the Oratory chapel at Valdocco for Mass, Confession, and Adoration (still dripping in sweat and covered in mud).

Young men thrive when challenged - physically, intellectually, and spiritually. I believe in our mission with my whole heart and continue to be amazed by the Father’s blessing. Let us be heroic in our pursuit of virtue and faithful to our interior lives, for God is moving.

And may we never cease to get muddy along the way.