Saint Leo University Ministry To Host Kirkchella Coffeehouse

ST. LEO, FL – The Saint Leo University Ministry will host its annual coffeehouse event, Kirkchella, 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 9.

“Kirkchella,” a play on the popular Coachella arts and music festival in California, will take place outside the clock tower at Saint Jude Chapel/Student Activities Building and on the Kirk Green (lawn) by Kirk Hall. Snacks and coffee will be served at this free event.

This year’s event will feature a special guest singer and musician, the Rev. John Klein. Like the Rev. Randall Meissen, university chaplain, Klein was ordained as a priest in the Legionaries of Christ Order. Klein now serves the Catholic Center at Georgia Tech University.

He aspired to be a singer and songwriter, but then followed a calling to the priesthood. Now, Klein uses his God-given gift to evangelize through his contemporary Christian music, which can be found on Spotify, Apple Music or YouTube.

Klein also leads students in “street missions” in Georgia, singing and joining in praise with those who gather.

Additionally, Kirkchella will feature Lucas Nocera, music minister for Saint Leo, who also has recorded contemporary Christian music.

“Joy is very much a part of who we are as Catholics,” said Meissen. “Our goal is to bring together students for a time of fellowship. As St. Augustine said, ‘the one who sings, prays twice.’”

This event is open to youth groups from neighboring parishes, Saint Leo students, faculty, staff and alumni. Registration must be made in advance here.

Parking is free and may be found on campus in all open lots and the parking garage after 5:30 p.m. Saint Leo University is at 33701 State Road 52.

For more information, contact ministry@saintleo.edu.