The Bishop’s Commission on Women in the Church and in Society invites women across central Illinois to begin their Lenten journey at a day of recollection on Saturday, Feb. 28.

The day will begin at 9 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria with the sacrament of reconciliation, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the rosary. Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, CSC, will join the group for Mass at 10:30 a.m. and the luncheon that follows in the new Spalding Pastoral Center, 419 N.E. Madison Ave.

The speaker for this year’s gathering is Kimberly A. Padan, executive director of the Women’s Care Clinic in Danville. Her talk will focus on “Celebrating the Dignity of Women.”

“She’s a beautiful, inspiring, enthusiastic, vital lady,” said Agnes Christman, who chairs the commission. “We’re excited to have someone in our diocese to be our speaker.”

While Padan may not be as widely known as last year’s speaker, Johnnette Benkovic, Christman said one of her strengths is her experience with people of all ages. Not only have Padan and her husband Bruce served as foster parents to 41 children, but she is a board member for Eastern Illinois Teens Encounter Christ and Help Ministries Inc.

A member of St. Paul’s Parish in Danville, Padan also has been a facilitator for “Women of Grace,” a study series written by Benkovic “to encourage and affirm women in their dignity as daughters of God and in their gift of authentic femininity.”

“It’s very, very nice to find someone who is an unknown to introduce to the ladies. We hope all people who came last year will come back to hear her,” said Christman, who added, “We hope that perhaps she’ll entice even younger women to come and join us.”

The Women’s Day of Recollection, which includes a buffet luncheon, will end at about 2:30 p.m., according to Christman.

The cost is $20 and those who are interested can reserve a space at the luncheon by sending a check, made payable to “Commission on Women,” to Penny Rowan, 410 W. First St. Apt. 2, Kewanee, IL 61443. The deadline for reservations is Feb. 18.

“Begin your journey through the Lenten season with this day of spiritual enrichment and renewal — and bring a friend,” Christman said.