I had a grand time at the NDICE conference in Cincinnati (I’ve finally learned how to spell it) and enjoyed rubbing elbows with my brother deacons from around the country.

I’m told about 250 people were there, deacons and their wives, and it was one of the best turnouts they’ve had in years. Among other things, I got to sample two Cincinnati delicacies: Graeter’s Ice Cream and Gold Star Chili. (The latter is served, inexplicably, over spaghetti. But it’s sensationally good. Really.)

I also had the unusual experience of preaching Sunday night in a very modern church, the Bellarmine Chapel — which is lightyears away from the soaring vaulted ceilings and elaborate ambo (reached by climbing several stairs) to which I’m accustomed in Queens. (For comparison: my home parish seats about a thousand. The chapel at Xavier, about 300.)

A shot of the chapel is below.

I was surprised that when I first entered the chapel, it took me several minutes to find the tabernacle. Finally, someone directed me down a side hall to a back room, where there was a private chapel with a few chairs. And there, indeed, was the tabernacle. I don’t recall seeing a crucifix. But you can’t miss the technicolor tableau behind the altar.

Soon after I arrived, I got to meet the legendary Jim Alt and his lovely wife, Audrey, who together put out Deacon Digest. Below are the Alts, along with Your Humble Blogger and the legendary Triple D: Deacon Doctor (Bill) Ditewig.

I’ll try and post more after I finish unpacking the weekend — in every sense.   But it’s good to be home.  (And no, sadly, I did not get to meet Les Nessman…maybe next year.)