Highland — Vocations are indeed alive and well in Highland and the Springfield diocese.

The Highland Knights of Columbus are very active as they continue their quest to support activities such as Respect For Life, the Newman Fund, and vocations of seminarians, sisters, those seeking vocation of religious life and priests.

St. Paul Parish and the Knights of Columbus Council 1580 recently welcomed Bishop Thomas John Paprocki to Highland where he celebrated Mass at St. Paul Church. Afterward, approximately 125 members of the K. of C. Council 1580, the Highland community and several members of the clergy gathered at the Knights of Columbus Hall for the annual fundraiser luncheon and program.

Grand Knight of Council 1580 Joe Wetmore presented each of 24 seminarians and religious a check for $500 as well as an additional check for $2,500 to the diocesan Office for Vocations on behalf of K. of C. members and the community.Additionally, $2,000 was donated by the Madison County Bowl for Charity to be put toward seminarian education.

Featured speakers talked about vocations, Newman campus ministries and pro-life activities. Speakers included: Father Brian C. Alford; Ron Ziemba, PSD, on Vocations Activities; Sister Jane Boos, SSND, on Respect for Life; Larry Theriault on Right To Life; Newman Chairman Jim Coglianese; and Don Lohman, Council 1580 Church Director on gratitude.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you," Sister Jane exclaimed for the work of supporting Right To Life.

Bishop Paprocki said that all of the programs may be seen as separate, but are actually connected.

"All of the work that is being done by many are connecting the dots and the kids are open to the faith and to serving because of all of these activities."