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May 31, 2026

Earlier this month, I spent five days with twenty-three other priests at Mundelein Seminary. We participated in a workshop called, “Walking Together.” The object of the week was to help us to see our role in ministry and mission with our fellow ministers, ordained and lay, and the wider parish. This was demonstrated in the Gospel story of the two disciples who met the Risen Lord on the road to Emmaus. Initially, they did not recognize Him but Jesus revealed Himself in the breaking of the bread. A key goal for us as Christians is to proclaim Jesus risen from the dead with joy, not merely as a fact.

Priestly leadership is then broken down into three categories: Disciple, Shepherd and Steward. As a disciple, we are called to constantly enrich our personal relationship with Jesus Christ
and invite others to do the same. As a shepherd, Pope Francis described three ways a priest leads: from the front, to give vision and direction; from the middle, to walk with people through their joys and anxieties; and from the back, to gather those on the margins, whose relationship with Jesus and the Church is tenuous. Finally, as steward, the priest is to discern, engage, organize and develop all parishioners in their God-given gifts, creating a sense of co-responsibility for furthering the mission
of the Church and developing each person as a Missionary Disciple.

Our discussions were in-depth, profound and not without debate. I was the second oldest priest in terms of years ordained, and it was very helpful for me to meet some of the younger priests with whom I was not acquainted. It was one of my favorite parts of the whole experience.

On Thursday evening, small groups of parishioners from each parish were invited for a discussion of the principles shared with the priests. We then spoke among ourselves about our perspectives and hopes for our parish and the Church. I am very grateful to Renee Beemsterboer, Jeanne Lassandrello and James Peterson, who made the long trek to the seminary. Their input was invaluable to me. I am very excited that Father John will be participating in “Walking Together” in August. As I look to the future of Saint George, I see many valuable tools becoming available. Stay tuned.

Two important events are coming to Saint George, and I hope you will be a part of both. Father Ken’s 50th anniversary of ordination celebration will be next Sunday. Please be sure to express your gratitude to Father for his many years of dedicated ministry. On Flag Day, Sunday, June 14, we will honor our veterans. Both of these events will take place at the 11:30 AM Mass. Please join us!