On Thurs., Aug. 4th, we welcomed Dutch historian Simone Vermeeren of Eindhoven, Netherlands. Using both historic and contemporary images and previously overlooked sources, Ms. Vermeeren traced the extraordinary journey of Fr. Damen, S.J. that began in 1815 with his baptism in a "clandestine" Dutch Catholic church and his decision at age twenty-two to emigrate to the United States. Ms. Vermeeren provided over 100 guests with an in-depth history and information that most were unaware of about Fr. Damen's life.

Thank you, Simone, for bringing your research to our community.

We look forward to having you back again!

Pictured: Historian, Simone Vermeeren, Consul General of the Netherlands, Bart Twaalfhoven, and Saint Ignatius College Prep President, John Chandler