Bishop Neal Buckon, from the Archdiocese of Military Services, and Catholic congregation members McKayla Culbertson, Luis Ortiz-Velazques and Karolina Rivera. Buckon had just conducted a Confirmation service for the three Family members, Sept. 25.
Catholic Bishop Neal Buckon, from the Archdiocese of Military Services, conducted a pastoral visit to Fort Irwin’s Catholic community, Sept. 25.
In addition to meeting with Soldiers and Families across the installation, Bishop Buckon also visited with senior leadership on behalf of the Archdiocese. The 916th Support Brigade Commander Col. James Kazmierczak, and Mrs. Kazmierczak, hosted the Bishop with a reception dinner prior to the start of the his official visit.
Catholic Bishop Neal Buckon, from the Archdiocese of Military Services, speaks with Soldiers during a lunch hosted by the Blackhorse Chaplain’s Office, Sept. 25.
The Bishop attended a Soldier’s lunch hosted by the Blackhorse Chaplain’s Office from the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Buckon shared the vision and ministry of the Archdiocese and participated in an open dialogue with the Soldiers.
Buckon then officiated at a baptismal service for the Shopa Family and baptized their three-week-old daughter, Veronica Philomena.
The Bishop also met with “confirmandi” (candidates for the Catholic sacrament of confirmation) and presided over a mass with the assistance of Chaplain (Capt.) Kisuka Kilumbu, of 10th Mountain Division, who was here for a Training Rotation. Buckon confirmed Family members McKayla Culbertson, Luis Ortiz-Velazques and Karolina Rivera.
After the Confirmation Mass, the Military Council of Catholic Women hosted the Bishop with a spectacular dinner in the post Chapel activity room.
