Photo Caption: “A Call to Catholic Men of Faith,” also known as the Men’s March and Mass, will step off from the Peoria riverfront on Saturday, April 26.

Here’s a challenge to Catholic men of the Diocese of Peoria: If you have yet to experience “A Call to Catholic Men of Faith,” better known as the annual Men’s March and Mass, make this the year to do so. And bring your Dad, your sons, your brothers, your friends and fellow parishioners.

The 11th annual Men’s March organizes after 8 a.m. this Saturday morning, April 26, with a gathering at the Gateway Building on Peoria’s Riverfront. There are no reservations needed. There is no admission. Just show up, walk to St. Mary’s Cathedral, celebrate Mass with Bishop Jenky, enjoy a lunch if you wish, and start heading back home shortly after noon.

Why this year? You’ll be celebrating — and standing up for — your Catholic faith just six days after Easter and on the eve of the worldwide observance of the canonization of two modern popes: Blessed John Paul II and Blessed John XXIII. Participants will go home with a free book on Blessed John Paul II, a commemorative medallion, maybe some new friends, and the knowledge they have taken a public stand in defense of faith, family, and the priesthood.

Want another reason? The forecast as of Wednesday showed no chance of rain. So make this the year to find out what brings hundreds of Catholic men out each year. You’ll be happy you did. — Thomas J. Dermody