Generation to Generation
INITIATIVES REPORT 2025
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
With deep gratitude and joy, I share an update on Generation to Generation: Answer the Call. From the start, this effort has been grounded in faith, prayer and generosity. Your commitment drives our extraordinary progress. Each of you has advanced this mission, and for that I thank you.
I am pleased to report the campaign is going well. Each initiative has gained remarkable momentum. Our parishes and schools feel the effects of your support: spiritual renewal, priests with the resources they need, strengthened low-income parishes and schools serving their communities, and scholarships giving students hope for the future. These initiatives bring the Gospel to life daily.
We are blessed to witness renewal in the wider Church. The election of Pope Leo XIV brings unity and hope to Catholics worldwide. His leadership inspires us to trust in the Lord, who makes all things new. At home, our archdiocese rejoices in the elevation of one of our own. This recognition is a profound gift and sign of God’s providence.
As I reflect on these blessings, I am overjoyed by what God is doing through your generosity and prayer. Our mission is great, and so is your faith and commitment. Together, we build for generations to come.
Please accept my sincere thanks for your ongoing support, your trust, and most especially your prayers. May God bless you abundantly.
Sincerely yours in
Christ, Archbishop of Chicago
CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS
$204 million raised
as of October 1, 2025
68%
$300,000,000
$270,000,000
$240,000,000
$210,000,000
$180,000,000
$150,000,000
$120,000,000
$90,000,000
$60,000,000
$30,000,000
$0
Total number of pledges to date: 11,000
Average parish pledge amount: $10,500 ($175 a month) parishes have reached 7 200% of their goal of parishes 91% reached their goal
Generation to Generation launched at parishes on July 1, 2024 and is scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2026. The campaign also includes significant investment from lead donors working with Cardinal Cupich.
The campaign includes support for four focus areas: strengthening local parishes, spiritually renewing parishes, supporting priests, and assisting vulnerable communities.
I remember, as a kid, when a group of older gentlemen walked around our neighborhood, knocking on doors to fundraise for a new gymnasium at our Catholic school. I remember them sitting down and talking with my mom about supporting the cause. Now, I am that guy, and I see this campaign as an opportunity to pay it forward and secure a future for our parish.
—Parishioner at St. Raphael the Archangel
I have my job today because of the Catholic Church. Against all odds, my sister is the president of a global investment firm, because of the Church. My daughter got a great education because of the Church. When we talk about Generation to Generation we are talking about those young people that we are helping to build up right now. The great memories and experiences we had growing up and the opportunities we were given because of the Church, we have to work to give that to the next generation. That is what this campaign is about. Let’s come together to make this campaign a reality for our parish.
—Parishioner at St. Moses the Black
Gifts to Generation to Generation will be held in separate, restricted accounts and used solely for the specific priorities set forth in this Generation to Generation campaign case statement as well as the relevant local parish case statement. The campaign goals are approximate and based on anticipated needs and contributions. Final distributions will be based on actual contributions and net of related campaign expenses and fees.
SPIRITUALLY RENEW OUR PARISHES
In every age, Christ renews His Church. He will do so again through us. Throughout the history of the Church, our brothers and sisters have prayed, worked and sacrificed to build communities of faith. They rose to the challenges of their day to renew the Church and the world around them.
We are now called to come together for the spiritual renewal of our parishes and our communities. The signs of the times indicate that restless hearts are searching for God. The majority of people in our younger generations did not grow up with active faith practice and have fundamental questions about purpose, meaning and the role of God in their lives. We can no longer wait for them to come to us but must seek them out.
Our spiritual renewal efforts are part of our generational journey to invite the spiritually hungry to a relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church.
Co-Implementation
Co-implementation is an on-the-ground model of support for spiritual renewal where a team from the archdiocese including a Parish Renewal Leader (PRL) dedicates 10 to 15 hours each week helping a parish grow into becoming a missional parish for today’s new missionary times. Working on site in partnership with the pastor and parish team, the co-implementation team helps implement the habits and building blocks of renewal, including entry points, small communities of belonging and formation, hospitality and engagement, and parish leader training. See the next page for “Signs of a Missional Parish” for more detail.
Signs of early progress at a co-implementation parish include the number of new leaders committed and formed for renewal and the number of adults engaged in an encounter-based entry point such as Alpha.
as of October 1, 2025
Signs of a Missional Parish
Equipping parish leaders to invite the spiritually hungry to a relationship with Jesus Christ fully present and active in our Church.
FOUNDATION
We remain true to the rich tradition and essential tenets of our Catholic faith. We worship in vibrant liturgies, with the Eucharist as the source and summit of our Christian life. We pass on to each generation the fullness of our Catholic Christian faith and tradition. We are sent into the world to witness the Gospel through service.
RENEWAL BUILDING BLOCKS
• We offer meaningful Christ-centered “entry points” of non-judgmental exploration within a community that provides space for an encounter with Jesus Christ. (ENCOUNTER)
• We actively invite all members of our parish to participate in small communities of belonging and ongoing formation. (GROW)
• We continually activate and train newly committed parish leaders, empowered to serve our parish and community and comfortable sharing our faith. (GO)
• We equip our communities for outreach to those exploring questions of meaning, purpose, healing and belonging. (EXPLORE)
CORE RENEWAL HABITS AND PRACTICES
• We are led by the Holy Spirit and pray regularly for the renewal of our Church.
• We engage our parish community in our renewal vision and regularly communicate with members about how best to enhance our renewal vision for today’s times.
• We lead as a team, bringing the gifts of individuals together to support our pastor in renewal.
• We intentionally create moments of space, prayer and reflection in our liturgies and parish activities to create opportunities to encounter Jesus Christ.
• We offer a compelling hospitality experience to all who connect with us, whether at Mass, another liturgy, an event, online or through our parish office.
• We have an established engine of intentional accompaniment—purposely welcoming new members into our community, accompanying them on their faith journeys, and connecting them to parish opportunities.
• We have a parish practice of inviting those outside our church to join us through well-proven entry points or other activities that best suit those in early stages of their faith journey.
• We regularly share stories of lives changed through our renewal efforts, enhancing our ability to proclaim the Gospel in our time.
• We continually evaluate whether our programs and activities meet our aspiration for “fresh encounter,” “deep belonging” and/or “bold sharing” in Jesus Christ and adjust our priorities accordingly.
Fruits of a missional parish: new disciples, more deeply committed disciples, disciples equipped for mission in Jesus Christ
Renewal in Action at St. Gerald and St. Catherine of Alexandria
Two Oak Lawn parishes—St. Gerald and St. Catherine of Alexandria—are seeing spiritual renewal flourish. This is happening through the leadership of Parish Renewal Leader (PRL) Sean O’Dea, their pastors, and parish teams.
At St. Gerald, renewal began by building on strong foundations. Building on this, O’Dea and the parish leadership worked to restructure staff roles and clarify priorities around evangelization, discipleship, and hospitality. “We want to be a bottle opener, not a bottleneck,” O’Dea explained. “It’s about asking what is preventing the Spirit from being fully on the move.”
This focus extends to adult discipleship and developing new pathways for people not yet ready for programs like Alpha. Identifying an evangelization lead, creating leadership pipelines, and emphasizing true hospitality have been important steps. “Culture is caught,” O’Dea said. “Our task is to put vision of renewal into the heart of the pastor and help him make it his own in the way he leads and preaches.”
Meanwhile, St. Catherine of Alexandria has taken a slightly different path, but with the same mission. For several years, volunteers faithfully led Alpha, but the parish realized it needed deeper investment and broader engagement to see lasting fruit. With O’Dea’s support, the parish just launched their largest Alpha yet. “That momentum was possible because of the strong foundation volunteers had built,” O’Dea said. The parish also introduced initiatives like a “Taste of Alpha” event and screenings of The Chosen to invite more people into faith conversations.
In both parishes, the focus now shifts to leadership development to ensure renewal extends beyond individual programs. Senior leadership teams are in place, working together to create sustainable structures for evangelization. For O’Dea, this work points to a larger vision. “Spiritual renewal is first a journey of belonging,” he reflected. “We want people to encounter Christ, deepen their faith, and share their gifts. It’s a beautiful journey where we help people experience the fullness of what a faith community can mean in their life.”
Spiritual renewal is first a journey of belonging.
Alpha at Queen of Apostles: A Journey of Faith and Community
Since launching in early 2024, Alpha at Queen of Apostles Parish has welcomed over 200 participants and become a catalyst for spiritual renewal. Alpha is a small-group program offered at many churches to help people explore life, faith, and meaning in a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment. Guests gather for a meal, a video, and open conversation about life’s biggest questions—creating space for connection and faith.
Fr. Jason Malave, pastor of Queen of Apostles, sees Alpha as essential to evangelization. “We needed to overinvest in a small group of people who would champion the evangelization journey,” he says. That vision led to the creation of an Evangelization Vision Council and a flourishing Alpha ministry.
Beth Kraszewski, who leads Alpha, was one of the ministry’s first champions. “There’s a hunger—an unconscious hunger—for people to connect more deeply with God, with Jesus,” she says. “Alpha helps open that door.”
From just a handful of volunteers, the team grew quickly. “We had two or three people at the first planning session,” Beth recalls. “By fall, 25 showed up ready to help.” For both leaders, the momentum is Spirit-led. “The Holy Spirit is the number one reason,” says Beth. “People who’ve been impacted are becoming leaders.”
Alpha’s impact is personal and communal. “A hardened police officer began attending Mass again with his wife,” Fr. Malave shares. “Their 19-year-old granddaughter was baptized at Easter Vigil.” Beth recalls a woman in her 70s burdened by trauma: “After one session, she turned to me and said, ‘Beth, it’s gone.’”
Alpha has fostered belonging. “There’s a new spirit,” says Fr. Malave. “People know each other’s names.” Ministries have been energized, and bilingual sessions have united English- and Spanishspeaking parishioners.
Looking ahead, the parish hopes to expand Alpha. “It’s awakening something deeper,” says Beth. “It’s helped me discern how I’m called to serve.”
There’s a hunger—an unconscious hunger—for people to connect more deeply with God, with Jesus. Alpha helps open that door.
Renewal Workshops for Clergy, Staff and Engaged Parishioners
The Archdiocese of Chicago and the School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization at University of St. Mary of the Lake are partnering to offer training to support spiritual renewal within our parishes. These free online courses include:
Intro to Spiritual Renewal
Two-session course to learn what spiritual renewal is, why it is necessary, and how you and your parish can take the next steps.
Faith Trends
A close look at data describing the shift in people’s attitudes toward religion over the past 50 years, signs of hope in our midst and how spiritual renewal responds to these trends.
Hospitality Training
A series focused on creating an environment where all people feel seen, heard, known and not judged.
Go Forth: Foundations Series designed to help those ready for missionary discipleship but unsure how to get started. Topics include recognizing your call, understanding and sharing your story and developing skills for accompaniment.
Renewing Hearts at Christ Our Hope Parish
When parish renewal leader Eleanor Segraves first heard about Renew My Church, she felt a spark of curiosity. Having served as a Director of Religious Education for five years, she wanted more. “I wanted to renew the parish, I wanted to reach more people and help them encounter Christ,” she recalls. That openness led her to apply for a diocesan role and eventually to walk with parishes through the work of renewal.
Today, building on that openness, Eleanor supports parishes like Christ Our Hope in Highwood and Highland Park, where renewal has become a lived reality. Over the past year, the parish has taken bold steps to foster evangelization and build community, from hosting parish-wide vision nights to launching Alpha, a faith exploration program that invites participants to encounter Christ in an open, welcoming environment.
This momentum is evident: “We’re launching Season One of Alpha—and we’ve already hit capacity for both our English and Spanish sessions,” Segraves shares. “It’s a huge milestone. The team that’s come together for Alpha has been such a source of joy. They started out as separate language groups but bonded beautifully over the mission.”
Alongside Alpha, Christ Our Hope introduced new prayer initiatives, including a Lenten “40 Days of Prayer” series that offers guided experiences of lectio divina, the examen, and other prayer forms. The parish’s newly hired Director of Evangelization, funded by donor support, now supports these efforts. “The staff structure is everything,” Segraves says. “It’s what allows us to keep building momentum.”
The work has presented challenges. She admits, “Changing a parish culture takes time. We need to help people see the urgency—especially for young people who are struggling and need Christ.”
Through it all, Segraves says her faith has deepened. “I’ve learned to restore the initiative to God,” she says. “God wants renewal. We partner with the Holy Spirit and trust that He’ll bear fruit.”
Her message to supporters is clear: “Please continue praying for our parish and consider supporting our efforts through your generosity. Your prayers and gifts make this renewal possible—and it’s spreading.”
I wanted to renew the parish, I wanted reach more people and help them encounter Christ.
Faith Explorers
Faith Explorers are individuals who were raised Catholic but currently do not affiliate with or practice the faith regularly (less than monthly). Initial efforts to reach out to these Faith Explorers included individual interviews with 40 Faith Explorers as well as a market research survey of 1,217 additional explorers to understand their barriers to faith practice. Based on the interview and survey results, we have been able to identify six different segments of Faith Explorers.
In fall 2025 we launched the Explore More platform to help Faith Explorers identify with their segment. Programming is underway for these six segments, which will include tailored online content, in-person experiences, and spiritual guides to meet people where they are in their faith journey.
SUPPORT FOR PRIESTS
We are answering the call to support our priests.
While we invest in lay leader formation to support our faith communities, our priests will always play a central role in leading our parish renewal efforts. The archdiocese is committed to providing excellent educational offerings and supporting priests from the beginning of their formation through their retirement.
Our support for our priests includes seminarian education, priest pastoral and professional development, and care for the health and well-being of our priests.
Pastoral and Professional Development
Our mission is to support each priest in the formation of his human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral identity by helping him develop and express his capabilities as a disciple, shepherd and steward.
In so doing, we are faithful to the archdiocese’s commitment to assure that each priest’s lifetime commitment is fully and uniquely honored, supported, equipped and vitalized.
Guided by the Holy Spirit, we serve our priests by accompanying them as they reflect, plan and grow.
REFLECT
Priests of the archdiocese continue to engage in the use of learning tools. Strong participation provides priests of the diocese an opportunity to reflect as a foundation for creating a growth plan and engaging in opportunities to grow in their ministry. Below are learning tools utilized extensively within the archdiocese.
Archdiocese of Chicago Disciple, Shepherd, Steward Priest Development Model
This development model outlines 20 capabilities for priests organized under the biblical themes of priests as Disciple, Shepherd and Steward. This framework enables priests to take a holistic assessment of their gifts and development areas within the context of their ongoing, lifelong human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral formation.
Disciple Maker Index (DMI)
This tool, administered by the Catholic Leadership Institute, is broadly used across dioceses to gain parishioner input on parish life that helps priests and parish leaders understand and benchmark their parish’s strengths and development areas in helping parishioners become missionary disciples. All parishes are encouraged to utilize this during an upcoming offering.
Priest Leadership Inventory (PLI)
Helps priests reflect on their priesthood by assessing their passion, energy and skills in various aspects of their ministry. In addition, the PLI includes INFOR, an instinctive behavioral assessment that helps priests better understand their natural tendencies for behavior. Insights from the PLI can help priests better utilize their gifts and develop strategies in their day-to-day ministries. All priests who have not yet completed the PLI are encouraged to do so during an upcoming offering.
Catholic Leadership 360 (CL360)
Catholic Leadership 360 is a leadership development process that offers priests fresh insight into their effectiveness as leaders in the Church. The process provides a unique opportunity for growth in leadership skills based on structured feedback from those with whom priests interact regularly. This widely used process is offered periodically to support continued growth and development.
PLAN
Once a priest has reflected on where he is, he can, with guidance from the Holy Spirit, plan for where he is going – as a Disciple, Shepard, and Steward. A Growth Plan helps priest prioritize their goals and learning activities on the lifelong path of formation and development. As such, it is updated regularly. 78% of archdiocesan priests have a Growth Plan.
GROW
With a plan in place rooted in reflection, priests of the archdiocese are invited to grow through ongoing leadership formation and personalized coaching and mentoring. Coaching and mentoring offer confidential support, accompaniment and practical guidance for navigating leadership challenges and discerning next steps. Ongoing Priest Leadership Formation (OPLF) provides learning experiences that support the human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral dimensions of priestly life through workshops, courses, cohort gatherings, and curated resources. These efforts reflect the archdiocese’s commitment to equipping priests with the support and formation they need to lead in a renewed Church.
Coaching
Coaches are trained to listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and offer support rooted in faith and leadership best practices. With 1:1 coaching, priests receive confidential support while strengthening leadership and personal skills with tailored strategies.
Our partnership with the Catholic Leadership Institute (CLI), supports up to 50 priests at any given time through 1:1 coaching with experienced Catholic leadership coaches as consultants. As our offerings grow, we remain open to expanding partnerships that align with our mission and values.
Mentoring
Newly ordained priests and first-time pastors in the Archdiocese of Chicago are paired with senior priests who offer wisdom, support and encouragement. These mentors are selected for their experience and desire to accompany others in ministry. These relationships are nurtured throughout the year.
Ongoing Priest Leadership Formation
We continue to expand our portfolio of leadership formation experiences—designed to be practical, spiritually enriching, and responsive to the needs of priests today. These include both archdiocesandeveloped experiences and trusted partner-led offerings. Our work is ongoing, and we continue to develop or provide new offerings that support the growth, well-being, and leadership development of our priests.
ARCHDIOCESAN OFFERINGS
• Walking Together as Disciples, Shepherds and Stewards – A foundational experience rooted in our priest leadership model.
• Getting Things Done: Time Management Workshop
• Preaching From the Heart
• Foundations of Conflict Engagement and Resolution
• A Deeper Dive Into Conflict Engagement and Resolution
• School Pastor Think Tanks
• Leading Effective Meetings
PARTNER-LED
PROGRAMS
• Preaching for Encounter – University of Dallas
• School Pastors’ Institute – University of Notre Dame
• Spiritual Direction Training – Institute for Priestly Formation
We are blessed to have partnered with over 120 dioceses in North America in the ongoing formation and development of our priests. In my twenty years of service to the Church, the Archdiocese of Chicago stands out as an inspiring outlier in terms of their vision and commitment to investing in their priests’ development for the sake of the people. Chicago’s most recent vision for leading in a renewed church not only is well-researched and thoughtfully laid out, but more importantly it has an institutional urgency and commitment behind it starting with the cardinal and senior leadership of the archdiocese. I am excited to see all of the fruit it will continue to bear.
—Daniel
J. Cellucci, CEO, Catholic Leadership Institute
A Journey of Mentorship: Growing Into the Role of Pastor
When Fr. Matthew Litak began his first year as pastor at St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish, he was paired with Fr. Ken Simpson—a seasoned pastor and mentor known for guiding and supporting new parish leaders as they navigate the joys and challenges of their early pastorate.
The formal mentorship, which lasts one year, is designed to provide new pastors with guidance and a sounding board as they step into one of the Church’s most demanding leadership roles. For Fr. Simpson, who has supported new pastors for more than 15 years, these relationships are both practical and deeply spiritual.
“The first moments of how a pastor enters a parish are critical,” Fr. Simpson explained. “Everyone makes first impressions. It’s important to listen to the experience of the parish and understand its unique gifts and opportunities.”
Fr. Litak said the mentorship proved invaluable, particularly as he faced leadership transitions within the parish school and learned to manage the parish’s finances. “Having a mentor helped me think about things in a new way and a new light,” he said. “It helped me to slow down and understand I’m not alone in these issues. These are common challenges. Sometimes I may overthink things, but here is the broader perspective.”
The two met regularly, with conversations shifting from scheduled monthly check-ins to ad hoc calls whenever Fr. Litak needed counsel. “A good mentor listens,” Fr. Simpson said. “It’s not our job to direct—it’s to help them be realistic, to walk with them and help them find the right resources.”
As the year unfolded, Fr. Litak said he saw his leadership style evolve. “How I act as a leader has changed,” he reflected. “I have a better ability to guide the parish in a more thoughtful and fruitful way.”
Both priests agree that mentorship strengthens the bonds of fraternity among priests and supports healthy, thriving ministry. “A good mentorship program is necessary,” Fr. Litak said. “We all need someone to teach us. Seminary can’t prepare you for every situation—some things must be learned on the job and it’s very beneficial to have someone to talk to as you learn on the job.”
For Fr. Simpson, the reward is clear: “The most rewarding part is watching these pastors face leadership challenges and come out the other side stronger and grow from it and reflect on it.”
Pilot program helps priests ‘walk’ as disciples, shepherds, stewards
Nineteen priests from across the Archdiocese of Chicago gathered at the University of St. Mary of the Lake June 22–27 to participate in “Walking Together as Disciples, Shepherds and Stewards.”
“From all accounts, the week was a tremendous success,” said Cardinal Cupich, who was present at both the opening and closing of the program. “This is very promising as we move forward in this new phase of Renew My Church, which aims at spiritual renewal.”
The program, which will be offered to all priests going forward, had elements of retreat, formation and professional development, according to Father Kenneth Simpson and Father Michael Knotek. It centered on the Archdiocese’s Priest Development Model, focusing on gifts and roles as disciples, shepherds and stewards. Priests also explored leading in a model of synodality, or “walking together,” as the archdiocese moves past the initial phase of Renew My Church.
Simpson noted the pilot group included priests of different ages and experiences. Knotek added that all appreciated the chance to connect as brother priests, at no cost to them or their parishes.
Father Larry Lisowski said the five days together built deeper relationships. “You really spend some quality time listening to the stories of your brother priests, listening to the challenges that we share together in ministry … and also kind of dreaming. Dreaming about how we can face some of these challenges in positive ways, the future of the church, and considering opportunities for us to reach out to God’s people.”
The program, developed by priests and lay leaders using insights from clergy and parishioners, is funded by the Generation to Generation capital campaign. It will expand to an additional 80 priests by June 2026, with a goal of including all priests.
“It was so inspiring and humbling to see the depth of my brother priests’ joy and engagement,” Knotek said.
On the final night, parish lay leaders joined their priests for dinner and conversation. “It was an insightful evening … so hopeful as we all work to further the mission,” said Dawn Mayer of Holy Family Parish.
Excerpted from Chicago Catholic.
Seminarian Education
The archdiocese sponsors the tuition for our Chicago seminarians, and your support helps educate and form our next generation of parish priests.
Our seminarian education programs are now specifically focused on evangelization and skills for renewal, including an innovative approach to form priests in pastoral listening and accompaniment. As part of our commitment to excellence, we have introduced new formation methods inspired by medical simulation labs. The approach places seminarians in simulated pastoral experiences where they practice accompanying and ministering to people with pastoral needs, such as those grieving a loss or facing a difficult personal choice. Your generosity and assistance are crucial in sustaining this mission and nurturing the future leaders of our faith.
Answering the Call: Q&A With Our Seminarians
Jose Cruz Gonzalez
Parish Name: Our Lady of Charity/ St. Mary of Czestochowa
What inspired you to become a priest and pursue seminarian education?
I was inspired by the dedication and love for God and people that my close priest friends had. This helped to discern and envision myself doing the same for the people that God has and will entrust in my care. Because they loved God so much, they were able to give themselves wholeheartedly to others. I also have a passion for serving others and a desire to share the love of Christ with others.
In a complex world, how do you prepare to be a bridge of understanding and compassion in your future pastoral work?
It is important to listen to others when they talk about their experiences with you even with groups who hold beliefs that are different than yours. As a future pastor and spiritual father it is my job
for others to understand their worth and human dignity. I see it as my responsibility to be a good model of a person who knows God but who isn’t perfect either. I think that people will be more comfortable with a priest who is transparent but also aspiring to be close to God. This can show future parishioners how to be transparent while also pursuing holiness.
How do you see the role of a priest evolving and how will you adapt to meet the spiritual needs of future generations?
Our society seems to be lacking God and most of the younger generations are not interested in God and do not see the relevance of religion. A priest must understand the importance of evangelization and be able to relate to not only his parishioners but understand the society his parishioners and himself are living in. The first step is to teach my people that they are beloved children of God and the importance of deepening their relationship with God. Once they understand this, they would potentially be able to teach others in their workplace, school, etc. It is the power of collaboration and evangelization.
Karlo M. Leonor
Parish Name: St. Mary of the Angels
What inspired you to become a priest and pursue seminarian education?
I describe my life before seminary as the fullness of millennial young adulthood. A son of Filipino immigrants, I was raised in a close-knit, workingclass family in Seattle. I studied at the University of Notre Dame and then spent 12 years in business— working in corporate communications, human resources, and Big Four consulting. During those years, I traveled widely, experienced new cultures, and enjoyed a full social life with family and friends. I also tried to stay connected to my parish and other organizations important to me.
In many ways, I lived a rich life in the middle of the world, with all its joys and challenges. Yet, I began to wonder how I could give more. I prayed, sought the wisdom of friends, and came to realize the Lord was inviting me to discern priesthood. Today, I am a seminarian beginning this exciting journey of formation.
In a complex world, how do you prepare to be a bridge of understanding and compassion in your future pastoral work?
I imagine priesthood to be a constant encounter with all of humanity—people from all walks and ways of life, with their joys and struggles, dreams and doubts. To be a bridge of understanding and compassion in ministry, I think it’s important for me as a future priest to work at knowing a little bit about a lot of different topics so that I can relate with a
vast array of people. For example, in my first year of seminary I lived and worked at the TexasMexico border serving migrants. It was a totally new experience for me and very foreign from my upbringing and city lifestyle. I was so moved and convicted by that experience that I try to keep that connection with the poor alive by volunteering at places like the Mission of Our Lady of the Angels in Humboldt Park as often as I can. By accompanying our brothers and sisters in their way of life now, I can better serve and relate with them one day as a priest.
How do you see the role of a priest evolving and how will you adapt to meet the spiritual needs of future generations?
Pope Leo recently spoke to the spiritual needs of our time: “A very widespread ailment of our time is the fatigue of living… Reality seems too complex, burdensome, difficult to face. And so, we switch off… But reality has to be faced, and together with Jesus, we can do it well” (General Audience, June 25, 2025). I believe a priest today must help awaken hope in people’s hearts. Modern life is often exhausting and confusing. Many are weary of shallow online interactions and long for real encounters and deeper purpose. One of my priestly missions will be to proclaim the Good News in a way that touches daily life, offering people strength and a reason to rise each day.
As a future pastor and spiritual father it is my job for others to understand their worth and human dignity.
ASSISTING VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES
We will support our schools and parishes in economically challenged areas through Catholic school scholarships and parish vitality support.
Parish Vitality Support
A core mission of the archdiocese is to support parishes in need which can include grants for capital, operating, and ministry support. Recently, the focus has been on critical infrastructure needs. Below are some examples:
PARISH
St. Agnes of Bohemia School
St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish
St. Procopius Parish
St. Pius V School
Pope John Paul II Catholic School
St. Fabian Parish
St. Jerome Parish
St. Katherine Drexel Parish
Children of Peace School
Our Lady of Nazareth Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish
St. Oscar Romero Parish
Immaculate Conception and St. Michael Parish
PROJECTS COMMUNITY IMPACT
Hot water system upgrade at school
Stain glass window restoration project
Reimbursable grant for rectory restoration
Fire sprinkler and fire pump replacement
Masonry repairs
Church roof replacement project
Fire protection system: alarm, signs and detectors
Foundation wall and plaster repairs
Plumbing system repairs
Convent and library roof replacement
Masonry restoration of the school building
Boiler replacement at the St. Michael site
School boiler replacement project
Large parish and school in Little Village
Growing lower/middle income parish, graduate of Turnaround program
Large Pilsen low-income parish with strong school
Pilsen school with an entry-point immigrant community
Brighton Park school recently affected with immigration concerns
Large bilingual Burbank parish with 500+ in the religious education program
Large bilingual parish in Rogers Park
BSF school, St. Ailbe, serving Burnside and Chathan communities
BSF school serving low-income community in Brighton Park
BSF high school, St. Francis de Sales, in the far Southside
School serving the Austin community
Parish serving Back of the Yard community
BSF school in a vulnerable immigrant community in the far Southside
Critical infrastructure maintenance and improvement projects ensure our parishes remain strong, welcoming and vibrant centers of faith and service for generations to come.
St. Fabian Parish
Continuing the Mission to “Welcome All”
St. Fabian Parish in Bridgeview has experienced a renewed sense of unity and vitality, most recently demonstrated by the successful completion of a critical church roof and HVAC system replacement—an accomplishment made possible in part by a grant from the Parish Vitality Fund.
“It was extremely helpful to have this grant,” said Agnieszka (Agnes) Michalek, St. Fabian’s business manager for the past three years. “It was not a surprise that we needed a new roof, and the Parish Vitality Fund was a major contributor in helping the project come to life.” Building on this financial support, Fr. Grzegorz (Greg) Warmuz, who became pastor in 2018, led St. Fabian in raising nearly $350,000 through parishioner contributions to help fund the project.
A spirit of trust and collaboration is the foundation of life at St. Fabian, a vibrant parish with four Polish Masses and three English Masses each weekend. Ministries include a Women’s Club, an active Senior Group, a Rosary Circle, and a Polish School Ministry serving nearly 300 students across three days weekly—forming the heart of parish educational and cultural life. “Our community is very special—engaged, supportive and generous,” said Michalek. “They care deeply about their parish and want to make sure it’s taken care of.”
St. Fabian embodies its motto, “We Welcome All,” through outreach beyond its walls. One of its most meaningful initiatives is an interfaith dialogue with the local Muslim community, a tradition started by a previous pastor and continued enthusiastically by Fr. Greg. “We host tea times where we talk about our differences and commonalities, and how we can work together for the good of the community,” Michalek said. “It’s a beautiful ministry—it shows how faith can unite us.”
Reflecting this vibrant engagement, the parish hosts Lenten devotions, and other cultural celebrations that draw families from across the region. St. Fabian continues to grow in vitality and faith. “For me, this work is a calling,” Michalek reflected. “We have a great team, and a wonderful parish family.”
Immaculate Conception and St. Michael Parish
A Symbol of Hope and Revitalization on Chicago’s South Side
At Immaculate Conception and St. Michael Parish, faith and perseverance are central to parish life. Located on Chicago’s South Side, the parish serves a largely Latino community with parishioners from Mexico, Venezuela, Guatemala, Colombia, Ecuador, Haiti, and Nigeria. “This parish is special because of the place it is,” said Pastor Fr. Pius Kokose. “Being on the South Side, it is a symbol of hope for the whole community. People always refer to this parish as their home parish.”
In recent years, Fr. Pius and his parishioners have faced significant infrastructure challenges headon. When he arrived four years ago, the parish’s need for repairs was great. “As a pastor, this is a lot of work to face these infrastructure repairs, but I am happy with what we have done to replace outdated equipment,” he said. Thanks to a Parish Vitality Fund grant, the school now has two new boilers, ensuring safe and reliable heat for students. “It was a great support to have the grant for the school boiler,” Fr. Pius said. “We are very happy about this achievement.”
In addition, the parish successfully exceeded its Generation to Generation: Answer the Call campaign goal—raising $234,580 to restore the church tower, install air conditioning, replace the church windows.
The parish’s vitality extends beyond its buildings. Each week, different parish groups sell traditional food after Mass to support parish needs, creating fellowship and connection among parishioners. The annual Festival of the Divine Infant Jesus brings the entire community together, raising vital funds while deepening faith and cultural pride.
With plans to start a new food pantry and continue caring for aging facilities, Fr. Pius remains hopeful about the parish’s ability to serve their community generously.
Scholarships
Our Catholic schools are deeply committed to service, academic excellence and fostering values that extend beyond the classroom. Our schools emphasize service and promote empathy, compassion and a lifelong dedication to helping others. Schools throughout the Archdiocese of Chicago prioritize rigorous academic standards, critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
Catholic schools play a vital role in uplifting and serving our communities by ensuring that a highquality education is accessible to families of all backgrounds.
Through scholarships and tuition assistance, Catholic schools help ensure that every family who desires this high-quality education has the opportunity to access it.
Catholic School Scholarships
Each year the archdiocese is able to award scholarships to families in need. The Generation to Generation campaign is able to support these efforts across Cook and Lake counties.
2024/25 School Year
# of students awarded
2,492 # of schools 125
Average scholarship amount
$2,170 % of tuition covered (average tuition: $5,500)
TOTAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED*
*The total scholarships funded by the Generation to Generation campaign is $3,129,279.
Muchas gracias, por seguir dando el apoyo a mi hijo de tener una educación de calidad forjada en valores y sobre todo llevar una educación de fe católica para su desarrollo y crecimiento. Muchas gracias.
My family and I are deeply grateful for the scholarship awarded. This generous support is particularly meaningful as, without it, we would not have been able to afford sending him to such a wonderful school. This scholarship not only provides financial relief but also empowers my son’s academic pursuits. We are blessed and grateful beyond words!!
39%
$5,406,810
Finding Hope and Happiness at St. John Vianney School
For Nicholas Hansen, choosing St. John Vianney School for his children was about finding a safe and nurturing place where they could thrive both academically and personally. After difficult experiences in their neighborhood school—where his fifth grade daughter was bullied to the point of coming home in tears every day—he knew something had to change.
The positive change was immediate. “We looked at three different schools when we decided to move them, but St. John Vianney ended up being the best fit,” Hansen said. His son, now in seventh grade, and his younger daughter, who is in pre-K, joined as well. “The kids are doing extraordinarily well now. There’s a lot of excitement for school, and they’re really motivated. They’re getting straight A’s right now.”
This transition has transformed his children’s academic lives and their overall outlook. Hansen has noticed “drastic growth in their attitude toward school and academics,” and credits the school’s structure and supportive atmosphere for the change. “The school feels like a family atmosphere—it’s very supportive,” he shared.
Building on this support, Hansen finds the integration of faith into learning meaningful. “There’s a lot of satisfaction in knowing my kids are in an environment where faith is part of their education,” he said. His family is slowly becoming more involved in the parish community as well.
Their experience at St. John Vianney was made possible through scholarship support, something Hansen says his family will never forget. “It has been a huge relief to our family to know there is help out there to be had,” he said. “Thank you for the opportunity—we couldn’t be more grateful. It’s great to see our kids so happy coming home from school.”
Looking ahead, Hansen has high hopes for his children’s futures. “I want my kids to keep doing well in school, and I want them to go to college,” he said. “With the foundation they’re getting here, I believe they will.”
Thank you for the opportunity—we couldn’t be more grateful. It’s great to see our kids so happy coming home from school.
CAMPAIGN PRAYER
God of abundant and generous mercy, we gratefully acknowledge the many gifts you have given us across the years from the sacrifice of generations before us.
And so, we confidently trust that you will walk with us into the future.
We echo the words of the Blessed Virgin Mary: truly, your mercy is from generation to generation.
Help us now to respond generously to your gifts, as we support our Church in the Archdiocese of Chicago and work to bring faith forward for the generations that follow us.
By your grace and help, let our gifts be a blessing for our children, our grandchildren, and those who follow them.
Through Christ our Lord.
Stewardship and Development
835 North Rush Street
Chicago, IL 60611-2030
archchicago.org/gentogen
To learn more about the campaign scan the QR code below for more information.