Fr. Simon Lobo is a seasoned pastor, and author. His first book, Divine Renovation Apprentice, was his personal reflection on the essential role of leadership in parish renewal at St. Benedict Parish in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where he served as Pastor from 2015-2026. In 2026 he was elected to serve as General Superior of his religious community, the Companions of the Cross.

Fr. Dan Ramos is a priest of the Companions of the Cross. He is originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, and was ordained in 2023. He served as Parochial Vicar for two years at Saint Benedict Parish in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the birthplace of Divine Renovation Ministry.

Fr. Kevin Walsh, an excellent scripture scholar, will offer fresh ideas and new understanding for preaching the Gospel of Mark which will be used on Sundays throughout 2027. It is the shortest of the Gospels, only 16 chapters, so the cycle is supplemented in the summer with Chapter 6 of the Gospel of Saint John, the Bread of Life discourse.Father Walsh will include this important chapter from John as well.

Fr. Llane B. Briese, a brilliant scripture scholar, and a popular professor here at SVDP, will delve into the Gospel of St. Mark. The shortest of the four Gospels, Mark sometimes gets the short shrift, as it lacks some of the memorable moments in the other three Gospels. Yet hidden in its simplicity lies an elegance, one that focuses attention on four groups: hostile accusers, faithless crowds, weak followers, and the occasional exemplar of faith. These character groups invite reflection, as we often resemble members of these four groups in our own response to the Lord. This workshop will explore the whole of St. Mark’s Gospel and focus on ways to unleash its power in preaching during Year B.