At TFP Conference:
Catholics Unite to Face a Polarized
America
For a seminar focusing on the divisions
inside the nation, the 2004 TFP National Conference was
a scene of amazing unity. The Columbus weekend event brought
together Catholics of like mind from across the nation for
an intense and varied program. By the end of the conference,
all seemed to be immersed in an unforgettable atmosphere
of grace and counter-revolutionary camaraderie.
For the nearly 280 supporters, members
and friends that filled to capacity the 2004 TFP National
Conference at the organization's headquarters in Spring
Grove, Penn., the conference was a welcome chance to meet
with others and compare notes on how to develop effective
counterrevolutionary action.
This year's theme was especially timely
considering the present political climate. The title, "A
Look at a Polarized America: How Our Nation is an Obstacle
on the Road to Chaos" stressed the existence of wholesome
reactions in America and its implications. The joyous event
boasted an array of distinguished guests and speakers.
Of course, the greatest "guest"
was the Blessed Mother herself. Participants had the great
privilege of venerating the famous International Pilgrim
Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima who presided as queen
over the National Congress. Her unexpected presence showered
the event with graces and blessings.
The American TFP was also honored with
several other special guests. Delivering the Sunday luncheon
address was Prince Bertrand of Orleans-Braganza representing
the Brazilian TFP. Also speaking were EWTN host Fr. John
Trigilio and pro-life activist Mr. Joseph Scheidler, National
Director of the Pro-life Action League.
Facing the Future
Given the climate
of polarization in the nation, this year's conference aimed
to supply participants with the tools to face the future.
TFP members and directors offered talks based on the principles
of the book, Revolution
and Counter-Revolution
by TFP founder, Prof. Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira. They also
sought to instill confidence and hope in Providence and
the Blessed Mother in these difficult days.
TFP Director John Horvat spoke on "The
Role of True Catholics in a Polarized America." He
defined American polarization and its causes and then explained
what faithful Catholics should do in face of it. Mr. Horvat
also looked at the existence of a crisis among liberals
and leftists today and how conservatives must capitalize
on it. TFP member Michael Drake developed this theme yet
further during his luncheon address by offering concrete
suggestions on what TFP supporters could do in their areas.
TFP Washington Bureau Director Mario Navarro
da Costa discussed another aspect of this polarization in
his talk, "Entering a New Era of Religious Persecution."
He warned of encroaching judicial activism and new legislation
that threatened the free practice of the Faith. Mr. DA Costa
explained how the only response to the coming persecution
is action, confidence and hope in the Blessed Mother.
"Refuting the American Myth"
was the title of the talk given by American TFP member Norman
Fulkerson. His presentation focused on the Cultural War
and how some Americans are fighting bad culture with good
culture. He encouraged TFP supporters to become involved
not only in the religious aspect but also the cultural side
of the struggle for Christian civilization.
With the controversy surrounding pro-abortion
politicians receiving Holy Communion, Mr. Luis Solimeo,
a Brazilian TFP author and TFP Vice President Thomas McKenna
presented Church teaching on the matter. Their talk "Holy
Communion, Secularism and Christian Civilization" also
denounced secularism and its attempt to destroy the link
between religious and temporal society. Mr. Luiz Antonio
Fragelli, Senior TFP Director, summarized the conference
and presented conclusions in his masterful presentation,
"America: A New St. Paul?"
Between the Talks
The talks were but one part of the two-day
event. There were other aspects that made the TFP National
Conference an unforgettable experience. Foremost were the
daily Latin Masses which brought down God's blessing upon
the gathering.
Since there was no auditorium on the TFP
property that could hold the crowd, the lectures were held
in a large tent. Every effort was made to create a proper
and beautifully decorated atmosphere for the meals and breaks
between talks.
Conversation seemed almost as essential
as the meetings as TFP supporters had a chance to converse
and share impressions. New friendships were formed, old
acquaintances renewed.
A large number of young people were
also present to add enthusiasm and life to the gathering.
Students from the TFP-run
St.
Louis de Montfort Academy. helped
with the logistics of the conferences together with members
of TFP
Student Action. Several university
students also attended and joined in discussions of the
themes with younger TFP members.
Although everything miraculously stayed
on schedule, there never seemed to be enough time to talk
to everyone. The program also had its surprises. One was
a presentation of the TFP's Holy Choir of Angels Band. The
Saturday evening performance featured a selection of pieces
for drums, files, brass and bagpipes much to the delight
of those present.
Highlights to Remember
Another highlight was a candlelight
rosary procession with the International Pilgrim Virgin
Statue. Prayers and songs echoed along the long lines of
faithful who prayed for an end of the sin of abortion.
Especially memorable was the High Mass
celebrated Sunday afternoon with permission from the diocese,
at Immaculate Conception Church in York, Penn. The mass
was sung by the TFP Choir and attended by over 300 people.
Father Edward Kraus of Erie, Penn. celebrated the mass and
delivered the homily.
The recently- restored historical church
was a perfect setting for the splendorous ceremony. The
high point was the recessional procession with an awe-inspiring
rendition of the Papal Hymn with organ, trumpet and choir
that echoed throughout the church.
After mass, the closing dinner was held
at the grand ballroom of the nearby historic Yorktowne Hotel.
At the end, TFP Student Action members recounted their adventures
defending traditional marriage on American universities.
No one seemed to want the evening to end as the farewells
lingered far into the night and all prepared to return home
where they can put into practice lessons learned at the
2004 TFP National Conference.
