HICKORY — Director Deacon Scott D. Gilfillan recently announced important updates for the Catholic Conference Center, a multi-purpose facility featuring overnight accommodations and scenic grounds.
First are three staffing changes. “Over the past couple of months, we’ve assembled some amazing talent to take care of our guests. Even now, during the crisis, they’re diligently working behind the scenes to create the best experience for our guests when events resume,” Deacon Gilfillan said.
Kris Cordes, who spent four years as the center’s executive chef, is now the hospitality manager. In her new role, she will help plan events from conception to completion. “Kris has become known and loved by our guests,” Deacon Gilfillan said. “As executive chef, she graciously greeted each person as they entered the dining area and lovingly accommodated their culinary tastes. We look forward to Kris doing the same as she did in the dining area, now elevating the entire experience a person has when they come to the center.”
Matt Baldwin, who has a culinary degree, is taking over as executive chef. “Matt has had success in opening and operating his own restaurant, he has served as the executive chef with a sailing regatta team, and has had chef and catering positions in a number of restaurants and high-end venues,” Deacon Gilfillan said.
Ashley Dowdy now covers guest services and facilities. “Ashley is a dynamo of talent and perfectly suited to the varied roles she needs to fill,” he noted. “Her skillset includes web design, HVAC repair and carpentry, to name a few. Ashley will be there to handle just about anything that might arise during an event.”
Second, the Catholic Conference Center is also undergoing some updates during the COVID-19 shutdown.
“In the absence of retreats and conferences, we’ve taken advantage of this time to redirect our skills from hospitality to things like painting, sheetrock and carpentry. We think you’ll appreciate our efforts next time you visit,” Deacon Gilfillan said in the center’s latest newsletter.
The Catholic Conference Center is a haven for retreats, conferences, reunions and other gatherings for a variety of groups, including the Diocese of Charlotte. During the coronavirus pandemic, most of the center’s activities have been temporarily suspended. However, outdoor offerings are still permitted under the governor’s executive order as long as social distancing rules are followed.
“We get very few outdoor visitors,” Deacon Gilfillan said. “That means, in near isolation, you can walk the trails, pray the rosary, meditate on the Stations of the Cross, or spend a little time before some of the statues.” A beautiful indoor Adoration chapel is available by appointment.
Any visitors to the property should call 828-327-7441 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ahead of time. And for those who need someone to talk to and process these extreme circumstances, ask for Deacon Gilfillan when you call.
— Catholic News Herald