Taste of Faith 2023 Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Hot Springs Village, AR

Hall was packed with 220 attendees

On Friday evening, July 28^th, 2023, Sacred Heart Parish in Hot Springs Village held its annual "Taste of Faith" seminarian fundraiser. The pastor, Father Bill Elser, and more than 200 parishioners hosted Bishop Anthony Taylor, Vocations Director Father Jeff Hebert, Deacon Chuck Ashburn and fifteen seminarians. Father Joseph de Orbegozo and Father Ravi Gudipalli also attended.

Father Hebert reported on the status of vocational recruitment in the Diocese of Little Rock, then introduced each of the seminarians in attendance. Seminarian Joel Brackett spoke about his vocation and Father de Orbegozo gave some reflections on his first five years as a priest.

Since July 28^th was the anniversary of the martyrdom of Blessed Stanley Rother in Guatemala in 1981, Bishop Taylor made a presentation on Father Rother's history as a priest and a missionary to the Central American country. The Bishop was the first episcopal delegate for his canonization.

The event was sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 10208. A delicious meal was served by

Chef Johnna Westerman and music was provided by Larry Womack.

This gala event raised over $55,000 for seminarian education and formation.

To see all of the photos from this wonderful night, click here 

Front Row: Dc. Ashburn, Fr. Hebert, Fr. Bill, Bishop Taylor, Father de Orbegozo and Fr. Ravi Back Row: Fifteen Seminarians

Our Waiters are ready to go!!

Fr. Bill presents the parish contribution to Bishop Taylor

Grand Knight Gary Wolfer presents a check for $55,496.00 to Bishop Taylor