Photo Caption: Father James Marchionda, OP, a composer of more than 100 sacred music compositions, will lead the mission at Blessed Sacrament Parish on the theme “A New Moment for Catholic Spirituality.”

MORTON — Father James Marchionda, OP, a popular preacher and composer of more than 100 sacred music compositions, will offer a parish mission at Blessed Sacrament Church, 225 E. Greenwood, from Sunday, Feb. 23, to Tuesday, Feb. 25.

The theme for the mission is “A New Moment for Catholic Spirituality.” Father Marchionda’s topics will be “Widen Your Spaces!” on Feb. 23, “In God I Trust” on Feb. 24, and “Let Us Go Rejoicing!” on Feb. 25. The 90-minute sessions will begin at 7 p.m. and be followed by fellowship in the parish center.

He will also celebrate Mass at 8 a.m. on Feb. 24 and 25.

Prior to the mission, Father Marchionda will present a workshop for those who are interested in learning how music influences Christian worship. It will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Feb. 23 at Blessed Sacrament.

Father Marchionda, a member of the Chicago Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great, has been engaged in full-time preaching since 1994. In addition to preaching and composing, he is a conductor, singer and woodwind instrumentalist who has performed throughout the United States and abroad.

“Many people find it difficult to get away for retreats or other Christian experiences. Blessed Sacrament Parish is bringing the mission to the area so that all can appreciate this primarily adult program,” said Cathy Konsky, director of adult faith formation.

The other parishes in Blessed Sacrament’s cluster — St. Monica in East Peoria, St. Luke in Eureka, and St. Patrick in Washington — have received a special invitation to participate, but the mission is open to everyone.

“Father Marchionda is an inspiring presenter,” said Father Mark DeSutter, pastor. “I would hope anyone in the area who wants to expand their religious faith would feel free to come to our mission.”

For more information about the mission, call (309) 266-9721 or go to the parish website. To register for the music workshop, send an email to Diane Matheson at giffmom@gmail.com.