Seminarian helps parishioners exercise heart, soul

Karen Girard reported, Special to "Your" Milwaukee Catholic Herald, May 29, 2008. Seminarian Matthew Widder catechetics class required developing a plan of adult formation. His undergraduate degree is in exercise science. He used that background in developing his "Faith & Fitness" program.

Thirty-five to 40 people ranging in age from 13 to 80, including a homeschooler who came with his grandmother, gathered every Monday and Wednesday after the 7 a.m. Mass during March and April, to build up physical and spiritual strength.

The class was appropriate for people at any fitness level, according to Widder, who noted that most participants were near retirement age, and female.

That's the demographic of so many things around a parish, but here might only reflect the attendees at 7:00 a.m. Mass.

"We are not training for a marathon," said Widder.

Not a physical marathon, that is.

The unique character of the classes, however, came from Widder's enthusiasm for the fitness of soul, which matches his passion for physical fitness. Every class began with prayer and a reflection on one of the saints.

Something to keep in mind if you develop a beer belly from Theology on Tap.