Print Issue: April 25, 2002

Father Vessels Steps Down; Bob Fitzgerald Named First Lay Director Of Ignatius House

ATLANTA - Father Jack Vessels, SJ, has stepped down as director of St. Ignatius Retreat Center after completing his six-year assignment. Bob Fitzgerald, who has been assistant director since 1997, will now be executive director. It marks the first time a lay person has been at the helm of the retreat center located on Riverside Drive in north Atlanta.

During his tenure, Father Vessels increased participation in retreats by more than 20 percent and managed the first phase of the organization's capital campaign, raising $1.5 million. The funds were used for a renovation that included construction of a new kitchen and dining room, as well as refurbishment of administrative space and the residence for priests. The initiative also includes the second phase construction of a new chapel. In the last three years, a landmark prayer tower has also been located on the grounds.

"The blessings I have received through this experience are immeasurable," said Father Vessels, whose next assignment is undetermined. "The many people who are committed to retreats and the exercises of St. Ignatius is truly inspiring."

Founded more than 40 years ago through the gift of Atlantan Suzanne Spalding Schroder, Ignatius House offers silent retreats for three days or longer for men and women of all faiths. Led by a retreat director, the silence and solitude are conducive to restful, spiritual reflection.

Fitzgerald, a retired BellSouth executive, said he will continue to build upon the foundation established while Father Vessels was at the helm.

"Our goal is to have the Ignatius House mission become more apparent - to create a place where people can experience how God reveals himself in daily life," Fitzgerald said. "We can then decide how to bring our response into the world."

The appointment of a layman to the post at Ignatius House is significant. At its most recent world conference, the Society of Jesus agreed to increase its commitment to collaborate with lay men and women.

Located at 6700 Riverside Drive in Atlanta on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, the retreat house offers private rooms and baths. Up to 50 people can be accommodated during each retreat. A $150 donation, which partially covers the cost of retreats, is requested, but not required. Many participants give more than is requested to cover any shortfall.

During the retreat, a director presents a series of brief orientations based on Scripture using the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius to enter into the revealed word and make it a part of our daily living.

For more information on participating in a retreat, call (404) 255-0503 or visit the center's newly-launched Web site at www.ignatiushouse.org.