By Anne Marie Amacher
DAVENPORT — Michael John Poirier, a Catholic musician, storyteller and songwriter, will present a children’s story hour and an evening of songs, prayers and stories at Holy Family Parish on Nov. 8.
Poirier, who is known for his song “Strength for the Journey” from his “Ocean Mercy” CD, also will sing during Communion at all Masses at Holy Family Parish that weekend.
Sandi Hansen of Holy Family Parish said she and her husband, Greg, were watching the EWTN television network about 11 or 12 years ago and saw Poirier performing. Greg, who was going to do a talk for a Christian Experience Weekend (CEW) retreat, wanted to use one of Poirier’s songs for the closing song. So he contacted EWTN and eventually tracked down Poirier. The Hansens learned that Poirier travels around the world giving parish missions and retreats. For a Divine Mercy Sunday event several years ago, Poirier sang at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Bettendorf. Then he presented a mission at Holy Family. In addition to talks, Poirier offers to visit schools, children’s programs, sing at Masses and offer a holy hour (eucharistic adoration).
“His main focus is to bring people to a deeper love for the Eucharist,” Sandi said.
The Children’s Story Hour at Holy Family is open to children in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade, along with their parents, and includes an adventure through words and music. It will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the All Saints Catholic School gym, behind Holy Family Church.
At 7 p.m. Poirier will offer “Turn Down the Noise — Come to the Quiet” in the church. The evening includes songs, prayers and real-life stories.
A freewill offering will be taken.
For more information about the events at Holy Family, contact the parish office at (563) 322-0901. For more information about Poirier, visit his Web site at www.holyfamilynow.org.
