The Lay Centre community was delighted to welcome Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark (USA) and member of The Lay Centre’s Board, for a Eucharistic celebration and dinner on June 25th.
Cardinal Tobin was in Rome to take part in the second consistory convened by Pope Leo XIV — an extraordinary gathering of the Pontiff with all cardinals present in Rome. In a warm and familial atmosphere, our community felt deeply honored by his visit at a time of significant commitments in service to the Church.
During the Mass, the last of the 2025–2026 academic year, the Cardinal reflected on community life and the need to always live life’s most significant moments — both good and difficult — in the presence of God.
Cardinal Tobin’s visit to The Lay Centre is not the first, as he knows us well, but it was an important affirmation of The Lay Centre’s mission of promoting lay men and women in the Church and in the world. His closeness to Pope Leo, whom he has known for many years, is also for us a sign of ecclesial and spiritual communion with the Holy Father.
The same evening, we were delighted to welcome another great friend of The Lay Centre, Dr. Cecil (Mel) Robeck Jr. A specialist in ecumenical studies, particularly in Pentecostal-Catholic dialogue, he lived at The Lay Centre for several months a few years ago together with his wife, Patsy, as a visiting scholar.
Their continued presence and friendship are a testament to the lasting bonds The Lay Centre builds with those who pass through its doors — bonds rooted in faith, dialogue, and community.
Photo: Angie Rosine
