According to the public relations chairman of the program, Greg Koester, the idea is a brainchild of past Grand Knight Robert Walker of the Effingham Knights of Columbus. The motivation to do such a program, however, came from Bishop Paprocki's call for more vocations in the diocese and the recent rise in the number of seminarians in the diocese.

A past Grand Knight himself, Koester stated that the purpose of the banquet is "to come together to support an increase in vocations and to support" those who have already answered the call and are in training for the priesthood and the religious life. The support is both spiritual and financial.

The theme for the celebration is "Firm in the Faith." Koester underlined that the celebration is mainly to strengthen the faith of those called to the priestly and religious life. Thus, those "firm in faith" will be fostered, "those who do not hear the call" will be helped to hear it, the doubting reassured, and those who encounter obstacles be helped to "find the strength to overcome," he added.

Also invited to the function are the 20 seminarians of the Springfield diocese. In fact, "proceeds will be given to the seminarians during the dinner," Koester said.

He called all Catholics in the Springfield diocese to pray for and support the Drive for more vocations. He said he hopes future banquets of such nature could be held biannually by the Effingham Knights of Columbus. Two previous banquets had been held in 2000 and 2002 for the same purpose.

Banquet tickets are $30 each and donations are appreciated.

Contact persons are Robert Walker at (217) 821-6176, Greg Koester at (217) 821-7731 or Rich Feldhake at (217) 342-6985.