The idea for a regional prayer breakfast is a tradition begun by Father John Paul Klein, a former St. Mary's pastor. Father Mark Schulte was the speaker at the first CMPB; other speakers have included Archbishop George Lucas, Jesse Romero and Joe Lombardi. After seven years, attendance at the event averages about 500 men. This year's master of ceremonies is Zip Rzeppa.

From its beginning, faithfulness to the Holy Father and the Magisterium has been a guiding principle of the CMPB. The main subject of the event is always the responsibilities of Catholic men in the family and in the increasingly secular world outside the family. Bishop Paprocki will be talking on the theme "Wake Up Call."

St. Mary's is located at Fourth and Henry streets in Alton. Cost for the event is $15 per person and walk-ins are welcome. For more information, see www.catholicmensprayerbreakfast.com.