‘It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you’
Strengthening the call: A renewed focus on vocations
By Beth Parsons
Priests of the Diocese of Knoxville met for their annual spring convocation June 3–5, a time set aside for prayer, fraternity, and reflection.
This year’s gathering, the first under the leadership of Bishop Mark Beckman, placed special emphasis on nurturing vocations within parish life and across the diocese. Through keynote presentations, small-group discussions, and shared witness, the convocation became a moment of renewal in the Church’s mission to inspire and support vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and holy matrimony
“We have vocations in this diocese growing in all kinds of ways. Many people are becoming Catholic, so there is the fundamental vocation of being a Christian, the growth in baptisms, the growth in Christian marriages. In religious life, we have a variety of beautiful religious communities in the diocese, and we have six men thinking about entering seminary this fall. And a growing number of deacons are becoming incardinated in the diocese as well as studying to become
Vocations continued on page A14
Hearing the Holy Spirit Bishop Mark Beckman, standing center, presides at the June 7 ordination Mass for Renzo Alvarado Suarez and A.J. Houston. The young men are the Diocese of Knoxville's newest priests and represent a vocations ministry whose growth is vital to the diocese. Bishop Beckman is renewing the emphasis on vocations to the priesthood and religious life throughout the diocese.
Consecrated virgins hold U.S. convocation in Diocese of Knoxville
By Emily Booker
The United States Association of Consecrated Virgins (USACV) held its national convocation in Gatlinburg June 27-30. Some 30 consecrated virgins from all across the nation, including Hawaii, gathered for learning, prayer, and fellowship.
Consecrated virginity is the oldest form of consecrated life in the Catholic Church. A consecrated virgin is considered a “bride of Christ,” offering herself and all the love she may have given to a spouse and children to Christ and the Church. Consecrated virgins live out in the world; they hold regular jobs and provide for themselves. But their lives are directed by their commitment to Christ.
There has been a resurgence in this vocation since the Order of Virgins was officially restored as a distinct form of consecrated life in 1970. According to the USACV, there are now more than 300 consecrated virgins in the United States.
Bishop Mark Beckman celebrated the opening of the convocation with Mass on June 27 at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The day happened to be the solemnity of the Sacred Heart, the cathedral’s patronal feast day.
“I’m so grateful that we have the consecrated virgins here today on the feast of the Sacred Heart because I cannot think of a better place and time to celebrate the gift that they are to the Church. The Sacred Heart of Jesus has claimed them in a special way as He is their Bridegroom. It’s the perfect place and time to do this,” Bishop
God's love Bishop
from across the
the
said.
and
Beckman
Bishop Earl Boyea, bishop of the Diocese of Lansing, Mich., and episcopal moderator of the USACV, and Father Danny Herman, associate
pastor of the cathedral, concelebrated the Mass. Deacon Walt Otey served as deacon of the Word. Francesca Riddick, a consecrated virgin from
Celebrating
Mark Beckman
Bishop Earl Boyea stand with the consecrated virgins
country attending Mass at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 27,
solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. In his homily, Bishop Beckman spoke of God’s infinite love. He also acknowledged the consecrated virgins’ love and devotion to Christ
Catholic Media Association recognizes the Diocese of Knoxville
The East Tennessee Catholic, Office of Communications
The East Tennessee Catholic
The Diocese of Knoxville Office of Communications and The East Tennessee Catholic diocesan newspaper have been recognized by the Catholic Media Association, winning several Catholic Media Awards, which recognize and celebrate excellence in Catholic journalism and communications.
Winners were recognized at the Catholic Media Conference in Phoenix the first week of July. Winning placements for the Diocese of Knoxville included:
n First Place in Best Special Supplement for “Bishop Beckman Ordained”;
n Second Place in Best Coverage: Disaster or Crisis for “Diocese Responds to Flood Disaster”;
n Second Place in Best Diocesan Electronic Newsletter for DioNotes; n Second Place in Best Website Design for dioknox.org;
n Honorable Mention in Hot Topic: Eucharistic Revival for “Feeling the Presence of Jesus”;
receive awards for coverage
n Honorable Mention in Best Feature Writing Non-weekly for “Praying the Whole Time.”
Contributing to the effort were Bill
The Handmaids of the Precious Blood this year celebrate the 78th year since their founding in 1947; more than three-quarters of a century of prayer and sacrifice for priests. To receive weekly cartoons and short reflections and news from the Handmaids of the Precious Blood, visit their website, nunsforpriests.org, and sign up for the FIAT newsletter.
A July prayer intention for formation
in discernment
“Let us pray that we might again learn how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life, and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.”
Pope Leo XIV
Brewer, editor of The East Tennessee Catholic; Dan McWilliams, assistant editor of The East Tennessee Catholic; Gabrielle Nolan, a multimedia jour-
nalist in the Office of Communications; Emily Booker, digital media producer in the Office of Communications; and Jim Wogan, former communications director for the Diocese of Knoxville, who retired in 2024.
According to the Catholic Media Association website, these awards “uphold high standards of integrity and faith-centered storytelling, encouraging media professionals to inform, inspire, and engage the public through authentic portrayals of Catholic teachings and values.”
“The CMA awards confirm what I see daily this team’s work stands out on the national stage. They deserve every accolade they receive, and I believe I speak for everyone when I say congratulations, thank you for your service, we are praying for your continued success, and we are grateful to have you representing our diocese,” said John Mecklenborg, communications director for the Diocese of Knoxville.
Stories from The East Tennessee Catholic can be found at etcatholic. org ■
How to sign up and qualify for Diocese of Knoxville’s safe-environment program
The Diocese of Knoxville has implemented the CMG Connect platform to administer the Safe Environment Program, which replaces the former Safe Environment Program (VIRTUS “Protecting God’s Children”).
CMG Connect is a web-based platform that will assist in ensuring that all employees and volunteers who are in a position of trust with children and vulnerable adults within Diocese of Knoxville schools and parishes are trained to recognize behavior patterns of potential abusers and provide pro-active measures for preventing abuse in any context.
“Safe Haven-It’s Up to You” is a three-part video that provides vignettes of real-life situations to educate the viewer about methods of grooming, desensitization, bullying, and neglect, all of which can lead to abuse.
Each part of the video is immediately followed by a brief questionnaire to further develop understanding.
Education is a key
element of the Safe Environment Program
All clergy, employees, contracted school personnel, volunteers, members of groups and organizations over the age of 18 who work, volunteer, or participate in any capacity are required to complete the diocesan Safe Environment training and a criminal-background check before they can begin employment, volunteer, or participate with ministries, groups, and organizations affiliated with the Diocese of Knoxville.
In addition, the mandatory renewal training must be completed every five years and a new background check submitted before the five-year expiration of prior training.
The Diocese of Knoxville Safe Environment compliance training and renewal training is a condition of employment and for volunteer ministry in the Diocese of Knoxville.
The CMG Connect
platform contains all three elements of the Diocese of Knoxville’s Safe Environment Program: n Annual review of the Diocese of Knoxville’s Policy and Procedures Relating to Sexual Misconduct; n CMG Connect Safe Haven training program to be completed every five years; n Criminal background check to be completed every five years.
In compliance with the Diocese of Knoxville’s Safe Environment Program, all affiliates require that volunteers and employees complete the requirements prior to working and/or volunteering in a parish, school, or through Catholic Charities of East Tennessee and/ or St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic Go to https:// dioknox.org/safeenvironment on the Diocese of Knoxville website for more information ■
Sr. Regina
OA
by Bishop Mark Beckman
With much gratitude
Reflecting on a year with God ’s beauty and gift of faith
n a 30-day Ignatian Retreat, my director noted at one point that God gave us the gift of memory for two primary reasons: wisdom and gratitude. Wisdom gleaned from reflecting on our past mistakes and gratitude in reflecting on all the blessings God has given us throughout our life.
One year ago I was busily preparing to begin my great journey to Knoxville to become your bishop. It was a profound time of reflecting on the whole of my life and the many, many blessings I had experienced in 34 years of priesthood—and indeed through the whole of my life.
There was certainly sadness in saying goodbye to daily interactions with many friends, but also great excitement and wonder as I was preparing for this whole new vocation of being your shepherd.
This past year I have grown in wisdom (which means I am still learning from my mistakes!) and especially in gratitude. This Diocese of Knoxville is a true treasure.
The beautiful vespers service in the cathedral church on the feast of St. James the Apostle and the warm reception afterward are etched in my mind. The day of ordination and installation was an extraordinary celebration of this local church.
To see the faces of so many people gathered from every region of this diocese, the beautiful witness of all of our priests, deacons, and
seminarians, and the countless hours our Chancery staff put into the celebration were amazing.
The beauty of the liturgy, especially the ministry of music, added solemnity and joy. Traveling around East Tennessee, I am still greeted by many with the words: “We were at your installation…” or “We watched it online!”
Recently as I led the young adults of our cathedral on a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains, one of the young people confided to me that it was the beauty of the ordination liturgy last summer that brought him into the Catholic Church this past Easter! The Lord really does speak powerfully
in the liturgy and in His people, drawing us more deeply into the mystery of Christ.
Gratitude is the one best word that summarizes the movement of my heart as I ponder the last year. I have a clear memory of the beautiful spring morning I drove up to Mountain City to celebrate Sunday Mass and to confirm a young person at St. Anthony of Padua. Watauga Lake lay to the left as I drove early that day surrounded by mountains, with redbuds blooming everywhere. It is the farthest northeastern tip of our diocese nestled in the Appalachians.
I was reminded that morning,
as on so many mornings, that the beauty of East Tennessee’s mountains spreads in every direction. Memories of fog floating in the valleys as I drove from the south up to Crossville, and, too, of bright morning light on the outskirts of St. Henry to the north on another fine Sunday morning. Celebrating Mass and confirmations one evening on our southeastern tip in Copperhill brings back another great moment. Father Jerry Daniels drove me through that wild country up by the Ocoee River as evening was falling. The Georgia state line runs right through the church. I celebrated Mass at the altar in Georgia, while the folks in the pews (a mixed congregation from North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee) attended in Tennessee! So many faces of welcoming parishioners, of young folks eager to be confirmed, remain in my memory with joy.
This coming year promises to be one where the Lord continues to call all of us to radiate His light and love here in East Tennessee. The beautiful gift of our faith is meant to be lived out and handed on as good news for everyone here in this treasured part of our country, good news especially for those who are living in fear, searching for hope, and seeking a deeper meaning in this turbulent world.
Inspired by the Holy Spirit, let us together continue this beautiful journey ahead! ■
Why we need a new conversation on immigration
Dialogue based on Catholic social teaching can lead to
By Archbishop José H. Gomez OSV News
The military parade in the nation’s capital on June 14 kicked off a series of events to mark America’s 250th anniversary, ending with next year’s grand celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
The ideals expressed in the Declaration, not our military power, have always been what make America great.
Ours is the first nation founded on principles rooted in the Jewish and Christian Scriptures, the truth that all men and women are created equal, with God-given dignity and rights that can never be denied by any government.
America’s founders called these truths “self-evident.” Over the years, our leaders’ commitment has made this nation a beacon of hope for those seeking freedom and refuge from oppression.
Based on these truths, this nation has become the most prosperous, most diverse, and among the most hopeful, innovative, and generous that the world has ever seen.
But today our nation’s historic commitment to these truths is under fire in the confrontations over illegal immigration playing out in Los Angeles and cities across the country.
Here in Los Angeles, I have been deeply disturbed by the reports of federal agents detaining people in public places, apparently without showing warrants or evidence that those they are taking into custody are in the country illegally.
These actions are causing panic in our parishes and communities. People are staying home from Mass and work, parks and stores are empty, the streets in many neighborhoods are silent. Families are staying behind locked doors out of fear.
This situation is not worthy of a great nation.
We may agree that the previous administration in Washington went too far in not securing our borders and in permitting far too many people to enter our country without vetting.
But the current administration has offered no immigration policy beyond the stated goal of deporting thousands of people each day.
This is not policy, it is punishment, and it can only result in cruel and arbitrary outcomes. Already we are hearing stories of innocent fathers and mothers being wrongly deported, with no recourse to appeal.
A great nation can take the time and care to make distinctions and judge each case on its merits.
It is estimated that as many as two-thirds of those in this country illegally have been living here for a decade or more. In the case of the so-called “Dreamers,” brought here as small children by undocu-
mented parents, this is the only country they have ever known.
The vast majority of “illegal aliens” are good neighbors, hardworking men and women, people of faith; they are making important contributions to vital sectors of the American economy: agriculture, construction, hospitality, health care, and more. They are parents and grandparents, active in our communities, charities, and churches.
A joint study, published earlier this year by the U.S. Catholic bishops and several Protestant groups, found that 1 in 12 Christians here are vulnerable to deportation or live with a family member who could be deported.
The last reform of our immigration laws was in 1986. That is two generations of neglect by our political and business leaders. It is not fair to punish only ordinary working men and women for that neglect.
It is time for a new national conversation about immigration, one that is realistic and makes necessary moral and practical distinctions about those in our country
solutions
illegally.
I want to suggest some starting proposals for this new conversation, based on the principles of Catholic social teaching, which both recognize the duty of nations to control their borders and respect the natural rights of individuals to emigrate in search of a better life: First, we can agree that known terrorists and violent criminals should be deported, but in a way that is consistent with our values, that respects their rights to due process.
We can tighten border security and use technologies and other means to help employers verify the legal status of their employees.
We should reform legal immigration policies to ensure that our nation has the skilled workers it needs while continuing our historic commitment to uniting families through our immigration policy.
We should restore our moral commitments to providing asylum and protective status to genuine refugees and endangered populations.
Finally, and most importantly, we should find a way to offer legal status to those who have been in our country for many years, beginning with the Dreamers.
These are not new ideas, but they are the start of a new conversation. And it is time that we start talking again and stop fighting in our streets.
Pray for me and I will pray for you.
And let us ask our Blessed Mother Mary to pray for our country, that we may be renewed in our commitment to the truths that make America great. ■
Archbishop José H. Gomez is the Archbishop of Los Angeles, the nation's largest Catholic community. He served as president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2019-22
The faces of Christ An extraordinary minister of holy Communion offers the Eucharist to a communicant during a Spanish-language Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church in Riverhead, N.Y., on June 22, the feast of the Body and Blood of Christ. The Mass preceded a pro-immigrant march and rally organized by St. John's parish social ministry.
Taking in God's beauty Bishop Mark Beckman leads young adults from the Diocese of Knoxville on a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on June 14. The group hiked to Newfound Gap in the Smokies.
Archbishop Gomez
By Bill Brewer
FRestoring the old
ather Arthur Torres may want to consider leading a retreat on turning challenges into opportunities through faith. He has the perfect example in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Chattanooga.
The OLPH pastor is directing a major renovation of the 87-yearold church building, updating the worship space from the narthex to the sanctuary.
What started out as a pesky roof leak that exposed the church sanctuary to dripping water turned into a more severe breach following spring storms.
Father Torres explained that when a capstone was removed atop the roof, major damage was uncovered.
“They found a big hole that was causing the leaking. They patched the whole thing, the wall, the mortar. Then we said we have to continue remodeling the sanctuary of the church. Behind the crucifi x that is behind the altar, there was paneling. And behind the paneling was a leak. Because of that we had to remove the paneling as well,” Father Torres said.
“That is when we said, ‘Let’s just do one big project at once. Let’s remodel the whole church.’ So, we decided, let’s remove the carpet,” he said.
Father Torres noted that since the church building was completed in September 1938, it has held three carpets: one that was orange, one that was blue, and the most recent one that was crimson red.
And as the red carpet was re-
Making the new old again Father Arthur Torres, center, is leading a comprehensive renovation project of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Chattanooga. The work, which began in June and is expected to be completed this summer, includes making roof repairs, restoring the original flooring, and installing a new altar.
moved, it revealed a surprising secret.
“There was a beautiful fl oor under that carpet. We have a terrazzo marble fl oor. It is the same fl oor as in the old Sacred Heart Cathedral. And then we also said, ‘Let’s bring forward the altar because it’s not workable for us priests up there celebrating the Mass with this altar in the way that it is. It is too narrow. So, we are bringing it forward. We are bringing forward the ambo as well. We are bringing back Mary
Why are so many young adults becoming Catholic?
Reports say Catholicism is seeing a surge in popularity worldwide, including U.S.
By Dr. Christopher Kaczor Word on Fire
This Easter, the University of Notre Dame saw a record number of students enter the Catholic Church. This trend is happening not just at Notre Dame but around the country. Los Angeles welcomed more than 5,500 new Catholics.
The New York Post ran an essay entitled “Young people are converting to Catholicism en masse [. . .]” As reporter Matthew McDonald wrote in another article, “Dioceses are reporting increases of 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, and even more than 70 percent.”
Not just in the United States but around the world, a growing number of adults—mostly young adults— joined the Church. In Austria, there was an 85 percent increase in the number of adult baptisms. In his essay “Adult Baptisms: What’s Driving the Rise?,” Luke Coppen reports large increases in Belgium, Canada, and Mongolia. Catholic conversions are also rising in Kosovo.
In Sweden, the Catholic Church is growing, again with young adult converts. The Washington Times reported, “France sees a record surge in conversions to Catholicism.” In England, another article noted that it is “the young converts leading Catholicism’s UK comeback.”
Some people think that the COVID pandemic explains this massive surge in young people joining (or rejoining) the Catholic Church. As Yale professor Nicholas A. Christakis explains, “Usually what happens in times of plague is people get more religious. I mean, this has been observed for thousands of years. They get more abstemious; they stop spending money; they get risk-averse; they adopt a whole set of behaviors like that. And
then when the plague is behind them, they do the reverse. Religion now declines.”
In May 2023, the World Health Organization declared an end to the pandemic. So, what one would expect in 2025 is a decrease in conversions, rather than what is actually found: a great increase in people joining the Church.
What has drawn so great a number of young people to conversion? Each person’s story is unique, but recent converts often share common paths.
Many of them have been influenced by winsome and intelligent online presentations of the Catholic faith from people like Trent Horn of Catholic Answers, Dr. Scott Hahn of the St. Paul Center, and of course Bishop Robert Barron at Word on Fire. They don’t present a dumbeddown Catholicism incapable of answering the questions of today’s young adults.
Another recurring pattern is the power of beauty in prompting conversions and reversions. What could be more beautiful and moving than Holy Week celebrations in the Vatican with the pope? I had the chance to do this in 1991 with Pope St. John Paul II. It was absolutely spectacular, stunningly beautiful, and deeply moving. I assumed there would never be anything to surpass it. I was wrong.
This year, I celebrated Holy Week at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at
Catholic continued on page A11
and Joseph to the alcoves on each side of the altar because they used to be there,” Father Torres shared.
The brick wall behind the crucifi x in the sanctuary has been exposed after the panels were removed. The tabernacle will be returned to the center of the sanctuary. And the church fl oor will be fully restored.
“The idea is to restore the old because the church is beautiful in itself. In Rome, the Basilica of Sts. Cosmas and Damian looks so much like Our Lady of Perpetual
Help. By exposing the brick, you can smell the old very much like here. Many of the parishioners who have been to Italy say, ‘Father, our church looks like one of those in Italy!’ And I say, ‘Yes, it is a beautiful church.’ So, we have to bring back again the old,” Father Torres said.
The OLPH pastor is looking forward to returning the church interior to the way the parish founders enjoyed it when they fi rst worshiped at 501 S. Moore OLPH continued on page A12
BILL BREWER
Commentary
Dr. Kaczor
Jim & Mary Kois
Ron & Delores Kopp
The David J. Koss Family
The Kremer Family
The Kevin Krings Family
Chris Leach
The Lee Family
The Ray Lefebvre Family
Darlene & Terry Leitz
Lynne Liddington
Brandon Lins
The Liulevicius Family
The William Lovelace Family
The Lowell Family
Deacon Gordy & Fran Lowery & Family
The Mamone Family
Amner Vovany Tecu Manel
The Mangers Family
Brian & Rose Mayfield
Joe McConnell
Julie McCleary
The McGrath Family McGuire Family
Catherine McHugh
The McKenzie Family
The McLaughlin Family
The McNamara Family
Bill & Kitty Menhinick
Violeta Mercado
The Metz Family
Firas Mishu Family
The Montgomery Family
The Moore Family
Angelica Morris & Family
The Morris Family
Jennifer Mroz
The Njonge Family
The Octavio Family
The Ohmes Family
Dr. Fr. John Arthur Orr
Judy & Hal Osucha
John & Lenore Pacitti & Claire, Nicholas & Lucy
Hercules Parra
Hercules Parra Family by Maria Parra
Pat Pennebaker
Cesar Perez
Eloise Perry
The Pichiarella Family
Stan & Kathryn Pickering
William Price
Stanley & Josette Rabun
The Ramirez Family
William Reed
Isabel Rojas
Margaret San Miguel
Maria Santiago
Jennifer Schmidt
Beth & Neil Schmitt
The Schwintosky Family
Tim & Donna Scripa & Family
Janice Slyman
Seth Smith Smith & Appel Family
The Smith Family
The Spiller Family
St. Joseph Norris CCW
Dan & Beth Stainforth
The Station Family
Mikki Steinhoff
Mr. & Mrs. Christopher O. Stevens
Barb & Ernie Stine
Scott & Paula Suchomski
The Sullivans
Ted & Cindy Surdyka
Deacon Marquis & Donna Syler
Dr. & Mrs. Sherrell & Rebecca Greene
Marlene Guerinot
Jeanne & Maurice Guinn
Bill & Deedee Hansen
The Hargett Family
The Harlow Family The Hartsfields
Joanne Iuppa Hayden
Ann Hill
Marli Hillesheim
Eileen Hooker
Marilyn Horning
Deacon Bob & Margaret Hunt
The Ishikawa Family
Fr. Valentin Irurochkin
Nick & Amy Iverson & Family
Carmella Jochman
Anne & Stephen Johnson
Michelle Johnson
The Kayser Family
The Kirksey Family
The Kite Family
Knights of Columbus Council 15706
Knights of Columbus Council 3832, Our Lady of Fatima Church
Jane & Dick Koelsch
Richard & Natalie Tabler
Michael & Dorothy Terheyden
Mary Thacker
Mr. & Mrs. Reed
Thomas
David & Susan Thompson
Randall Thompson
Mary Tinsley
The Toman Family
The Turner Family
The Vela Family
Patricia vonClef, M.D.
The vonClef Family
Julius S. vonClef III, M.D.
The Walsh Family
The Walter Family
The Weber Family
Andrea Wignall
Carole Wilson
the Wood Family
The Yates Family
Xuyan Zheng
All Saints Catholic Church
Cathedral of The Most Sacred Heart Of Jesus
Holy Ghost Catholic Church
Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Jefferson City
St. John Neumann Catholic Church
St. Mary Catholic Church, Oak Ridge
St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Lenoir City
Berean Bible Church
Blount County Pregnancy Resource Center
Calvary Knoxville
Grace Lutheran Church
In Memory of Marylyn Miller
Oak Ridge Baptist Church
RIO Network of Churches
St. Nektarios Orthodox Church
Trinity Community Church
Wallace Memorial Baptist Church
In Honor of Carol Rosenberger by the Allen Family
In Honor of Care/Cuts by Marti Baker
In Honor of Kenneth Bartlett by Margaret Bartlett
In Honor of All Birth Mothers by the Beldyk Family
In Honor of all Birth Mothers who chose Adoption
In Honor of Valerie Brettin
In Honor of Pearl Bush by Mark Bush
In Honor of The Blessed Virgin, Mother of the Fair Love by Yoshiko Carver
In Honor of Ellen Joy Clancy
& Mothers in John & Ellen Clancy Family
In Honor of Mary Dunn by Mark & Rita Cook
& Family
In Honor of Our Blessed Mother by Jim & Kathy Cortese
In Honor of Abortion Survivors by Monique Cramer
In Honor of Margaret Dusichka by Patricia Danko
In Honor of Heather Darcy by Ron Darcy
In Honor of Brother Gabriel Gogar by Helen Freeh
In Honor of Helen Freeh by Nadine Freeh
In Honor of Bebes no nacidos (familiares)
In Honor of Justin Sumpter by Coral Getino
In Honor of Elsa Dik Glass by Meg Glass
In Honor of Marcos by Guadalupe Gomez
In Honor of Our grandchildren by the Hartsfields
In Honor of Einsieder Family by Marli Hillesheim
In Honor of Pope Leo XIV by the Iverson Family
In Honor of Theo & Abram by Dylan & Mary Margaret Jenkins
In Honor of Carson & Greta McKown by Carmella & Mike Jochmann
In Honor of all unborn children by Isabel
In Honor of Our children & future generations by Kevin & Carolyn
In Honor of Shiloh by the Larson Family
In Honor of George Mares, Jr. by Alan & Deborah Lee
In Honor of all unborn babies by Emily Lemming
In Honor of the Mahoney Family by Liz Mahoney
In Honor of Don & Judy & Hedy by Dan & Miriam Mangers & Family
In Honor of Dorothy M. Durbin & Judy Mayfield by the Mayfield Family
In Honor of Ninos Abortados by Salud de mi madre
In Honor of Caitlin by Diane & Kevin Monaghan
In Honor of Ashley King by the Morris Family
In Honor of Hunter Stevens by Jennifer & David Mroz
In Honor of Beulah Armetta by Tona Neal
In Honor of Dad Meshlam Wachiia by the Njonges
In Honor of Los ninos no Nacidos by Hercules Parra
In Honor of A todos los ninos by Cesar Perez
In Honor of our Pro-Life Bishop & Priests by Carole Price
In Honor of Joe Reyda by the Reyda Family
In Honor of Mi mama Rafaela Gomez by Isabel Rojas
In Honor of a mis nietes by Maria Santiago
In Honor of Sybil Caywood by Jennifer Schmidt
In Honor of The Shelton/Stamper/Walden Families by Bill & Lisa Shelton
In Honor of Sosinski & Bond Families by Joe & Jen Sosinski
In Honor of St. Nektarios Orthodox Church
In Honor of our children by Scott & Paula Suchomski
In Honor of Bill Sullivan & Juan Bartolo Families by Bill & Angie Sullivan
In Honor of Ray & Sandra Sullivan by the Sullivans
In Honor of Carrie Thompson by David & Susan Thompson
In Honor of Madison & Kennedy by Memere
In Honor of Margaret Vance by Philip Vance
In Memory of Fred & Julia Allington by Bill & Theresa Allington
In Memory of John & Luella Litteureux by Bill & Theresa Allington
In Memory of Joseph & Jessica Appel by Jeff & Andrea Smith
In Memory of Francis the Pope by the Baker Family
In Memory of Dossie Foley-Rachel Bales by the Bales Family
In Memory of Delpha Hensley by Margaret Bartlett
In Memory of Gert & Hope, Vince & Louie by Bob & Mary Blackorby
In Memory of Mateus Balbino by the Borges Family
In Memory of Jamie Meadows by Erin & Mark Bozeman
In Memory of Mary Dolan Mahler by John & Jenny Campbell
In Memory of the Divine Child by Yoshiko Carver
In Memory of June Terrell by Leslie Consoli
In Memory of Robert Coyne by his family
In Memory of Norma Dixon by Monique Cramer
In Memory of Michael & Annie Danko by Patricia Danko
In Memory of Ted & Phyllis Denning by Susan Denning
In Memory of Rachel Lucille Donahoo Wiggins by Mom & Dad
In Memory of the deceased of the Donahoo & Blalack Families by Duane & Debbie
In Memory of Charles A. Dorman by Ruth S. Dorman
In Memory of Paul T. Dunn by Mary Dunn
In Memory of Paul T. Dunn III by Marieta Dunn
In Memory of Paul T. Dunn III by Sarah Dunn
In Memory of Paul T. Dunn Jr. by Sarah Dunn
In Memory of Robert Joseph Eilerman by Dr. & Mrs. Michael S. Eilerman
In Memory of Willam & Elizabeth Meyer by Michael & Theresa Eilerman
In Memory of Ronald Ericks by his wife
In Memory of Vader Ernst by Kathy
in Memory of Deceased Members of Eron Family by Mary Ellen Eron
In Memory of Our parents & family by Jerry & Suzanne Erpenbach
In Memory of Claire Ward by Elizabeth Flick
In Memory of Dan & Mary Wormald by The Freeze Family
In Memory of Elsa Anders & Jenny Glass by Meg Glass
In Memory of Deacon Mike Gouge by Anita Gouge
In Memory of William Guerinot by Marlene Guerinot
In Memory of Herman L. Hannel by Jean Hannel
In Memory of deceased family by Joanne Iuppa Hayden
In Memory of Ellen Mee by the Hill Family
In Memory of Hillesheim Family by Marli Hillesheim
In Memory of Louis Huber by Chip Huber
In Memory of Zieler & Cifelli Families by the Kayser Family
In Memory of All Mothers by Isabel
In Memory of Daniel Koelsch by Mom & Dad
In Memory of Colonel Lou LaMarche by Dot LaMarche
In Memory of Mother Marie F. Lehman by Letha R. Lehman
In Memory of Virginia Bauer by Darlene & Terry Leitz
In Memory of Stan & Ellen Pickering
In Memory of Lowell Esker Johnson by Grandson & Family
In Memory of Deceased Lowerys & Russo's
In Memory of Monsignor Mankel by Fr. John O'Neill
In Memory of Patrick McCleary by Julie McCleary
In Memory of Baby Lily by Catherine McHugh
In Memory of Parents by children & grands
In Memory of Jon McWhirter
In Memory of Nacianos, ninos, onimalitos abandonados by Violeta Mercado
In Memory of Larry Metz by Mary Metz
In Memory of Charlotte McMillan & Martha Moore by the Moore Family
In Memory of Barbara Ohmes by Martin & Emily Ohmes
In Memory of Msgr. Mankel by Fr. John O'Neill
In Memory of Victoria Marie Orr by J.A. Orr
In Memory of Deacon Michael Gouge by the Pacitti Family
In Memory of Larry Perry by Eloise Perry
In Memory of Stan & Ellen Pickering
In Memory of Jean Price by William Price
In Memory of Lillian Proctor by Nancy Proctor
In Memory of Fabian Gomez by Isabel Rojas
In Memory of Ernest San Miguel by his wife
In Memory of los ninos no nacidos by Maria Santiago
In Memory of Judy Schmidt by Schmidt Family
In Memory of Bill & Dolores Gogar by Tim & Donna Scripa & Family
In Memory of Jean Simpson by Tom Simpson
In Memory of Truman Smith & Baby Horst by The Smith Family
In Memory of Alice Boughner by Rita Station
In Memory of Members of the Smith & Stevens Family
In Memory of The Lonneman, Stine Families
In Memory of Doris Back & Kathryn Syler by Deacon & Mrs. Syler
In Memory of the Deceased Members of Tabler & Elardo Families by Richard & Natalie
In Memory of 2 Hume grandbabes by Reed & Betsy
In Memory of Epiphany Ryan by the Toman Family
In Memory of Michael Thomas Simon by Mother
In Memory of Mom (Megan) by the Turner Family
In Memory of Margaret Vance by Philip Vance
In Memory of William & Margaret Owens by their daughter
In Memory of Cody Martin by the vonClef Family
In Memory of Julius S. vonClef, Jr. by his son
In Memory of Louise Connor by her son
In Memory of Thelma Wantschek by Firas & Leslie Mishu
In Memory of Jim Wilson by Carole Wilson
In Memory of Josie Dombrosky by Joanne Wood
TENNESSEE
Chattanooga filmmakers gain distribution deal with Angel Studios
‘ He Named Him Adam ’ is the latest production from Crunch Entertainment
By Gabrielle Nolan
Local filmmakers Marc Aramian and Veronica DiPippo are making headway on their latest project, a pro-life film depicting the true story of Regina Block and her post-abortive journey called He Named Him Adam
Ms. Block found healing and reconciliation with God after her young daughter shared that she was having dreams about her brother in heaven.
“It’s very much like Unplanned, the same kind of audience, except we have a glimpse of heaven,” Mr. Aramian said. “Those movies are really popular, movies that have heaven and the hope of heaven in them. It’s a story of healing and redemption and her coming back to Christ. So, we think we have a winning combination, and we’re looking for passionate, pro-life people who are going to support us to get this movie made.”
The husband-and-wife duo of Crunch Entertainment shared that their previous crowdfunding campaign was successful, resulting in enough funds to shoot a trailer.
“Veronica pulled 12 scenes from the screenplay, and in two days with a skeleton crew we shot these bunch of scenes and put them together, and then that became the trailer we put on our website. But then we heard about Angel Studios,” Mr. Aramian explained.
In 2023, Angel Studios was listed among the top 10 distributors of movies in America, and some of their biggest distribution projects include The Chosen, The Sound of Freedom, and Cabrini
“They have a process; it’s a very interesting take on how to distribute movies,” Mr. Aramian said. “They’re the alternative to the big Hollywood
gatekeepers. They have subscribers who want good, clean entertainment, a lot of faith-based stuff, and they
First-of-its-kind Center for Sainthood Studies launches in California
By Paris Apodaca Catholic News Agency
The United States’ first Center for Sainthood Studies has opened at St. Patrick’s Seminary and University in Menlo Park, Calif.
The center announced that its goal is to “provide a road map for advancing candidates for canonization and increasing the chances of American candidates achieving sainthood” and aims to “make sainthood causes less intimidating and encourage more people to initiate causes,” according to the center’s website. San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone specifically commissioned the center to foster “a deeper understanding of the processes involved in recognizing the holiness of individuals and their potential for sainthood.”
The resources offered by the center include expert consultation, a digitization service, networking opportunities, promotion of popular piety around a cause, assistance with grant writing, and a certification program that consists of a six-day course that guides participants through the sainthood application process and canonical procedures.
The center’s first certification course, to be held Feb. 16–21 at the Vallombrosa Retreat Center in Menlo Park, will be taught by two postulators and canon law experts from Rome: Emanuele Spedicato and Waldery Hilgeman. The program is open to clergy, religious, and laity.
Michael McDevitt, a spokesperson for the center, said while canon law provides a framework for the process leading up to sainthood, it lacks practical guidance for the laity.
“Canon law has a clear set of rules to follow, but it’s not a how-to guide. It doesn’t take [people] step by step,” Mr. McDevitt said.
Mr. McDevitt himself has worked particularly closely with the cause for Servant of God Cora Evans, a former Mormon and American housewife.
“There are so many stories out there that could be told, and if we can help people with that process, more stories will come to light,” Mr. McDevitt said. “We all know that only God can make us saints, but it does take people to move this forward.” ■
sell subscriptions. When you buy a subscription, you become a member of their guild. That subscriber base
is now over a million people. So, if a filmmaker wants Angel to consider distributing their picture, they put together what they call an Angel torch. They submit it to Angel; Angel gives access to that torch to their subscriber base, and people vote on it.”
After two to three weeks, the score stabilizes, and Angel Studios makes the decision to make a deal or not.
“We got the second or third highest score of all time. People love the torch. The torch is about 8.5 minutes long, whereas the trailer is 3 minutes; it’s like a typical trailer,” Mr. Aramian said.
“Consequently, we got an immediate offer for distribution from Angel,” Ms. DiPippo remarked. “Once we finish the movie, the way Angel Studios works, is the Angel audience will see the movie, and then they’ll get a chance to vote on it again, and then if our score is higher than 85, essentially that triggers a theatrical distribution. … We’re pretty confident that we’re going to be able to get a high score and then achieve a theatrical distribution on the film once it’s done.”
The filmmakers shared that typically an independent film will be made and then in need of a distributor, but since Crunch Entertainment is starting out with a distributor it mitigates the risk for investors who want to help the movie be made.
“We organized our company to sell shares. These are profit-participating equity shares, and we’re fundraising for that now. We’re selling 350 shares of $10,000 each. We’ve just started that process,” Mr. Aramian said.
Another appeal is the all-star cast of the film, which includes the talent of Kelsey Grammer, Vivica Fox, Taryn Manning, and more.
“We’ve had people, old hands
Adam continued on page A24
Crunch time Above: Veronica DiPippo, standing, directs Sam Sorbo, left, and Kyree Cook in a scene from the trailer for the film "He Named Him Adam." The scene was filmed in Father David Carter’s office at the Diocese of Knoxville Tribunal in Chattanooga. Below: One of the promotional images for the film "He Named Him Adam" is shown. Filmmakers Veronica DiPippo and Marc Aramian of Chattanooga are partnering with Angel Studios to release the film
Celebrating 75 Years!
Join us as we commemorate the Year of Jubilee, the 25th anniversary of the Our Lady of Fatima church building, and the 75th anniversary of the Our Lady of Fatima parish.
Mark Your Calendar
Tuesday, March 11
Special Bilingual Mass at 6 PM celebrating the 25th anniversary of our church building, followed by a light reception.
Tuesday, May 13
Pilgrimage and Pentecost
Wednesday, August 13
Pilgrimage and Pedagogy
Saturday, September 13
Pilgrimage and Prosperidad
Monday, October 13
Pilgrimage and Prayers
Saturday, November 22
Friday, June 13
Pilgrimage and Picnic
Sunday, July 13
Pilgrimage and Praise
75th Anniversary Mass at Our Lady of Fatima and Reception after at the Airport Hilton.
Come celebrate with us as we give thanks for the past and look forward with hope to the future!
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
A learning experience
Fr. Charters ’ 50 years as a priest have
By Bill Brewer
Father Tom Charters has been nominated for the Lumen Christi Award, Catholic Extension Society’s highest honor. It’s fitting recognition for a priest who has served the Catholic faith for more than 50 years.
Father Charters is marking his fifth decade in the priesthood this year, and as the Glenmary Home Missioners priest looks back, he’s filled with much gratitude, many good memories—and some heartbreak—for his time as a priest with the Glenmary order.
Ordination anniversaries are difficult for a priest to keep to himself, but that doesn’t mean Father Charters didn’t try.
The pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Erwin, who is known for his humility and a personal preference to be “behind the scenes,” only alerted his congregation to the milestone on Pentecost Sunday, June 8, when they noticed photographers taking photos during Mass.
Father Charters was ordained on May 17, 1975, at Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Cincinnati. And his decision to become a religiousorder priest with the Glenmary Home Missioners was both intentional and unintentional.
“I wanted to be a missionary because of the influence of a nun during my eighth grade. She had been a missionary to China. So, I always thought about being a missionary, but I couldn’t learn the languages. Glenmary is a missionary community serving right here in the United States. You speak English … until 25 years later,” Father Charters shared.
Father Charters is enjoying the irony and challenge that in the past 25 years Hispanic communities are growing exponentially in U.S. Catholic parishes and have become vital to churches. That means he is learning to speak Spanish on the job because St. Michael the Archangel Masses are bilingual.
“As you saw in the Mass, I try to speak Spanish. We celebrate Mass in Spanish, and there is some broken Spanish. I don’t speak it, although I’ve tried to learn it. But every time I had classes, I would get assigned where it wasn’t used, so I lost what little I had,” he explained.
But don’t let Father Charters’ broken Spanish fool you. The par-
been a lesson in adapting
ish’s Spanish-speaking members are drawn to the Glenmary priest and are quite fond of him as he celebrates Mass with the help of a member who interprets for him.
Father Charters was born on Feb. 20, 1949, in Dayton, Ohio, to Ralph and Anne Charters and is the youngest of their three sons. The oldest son is Jim, who is seven years older than Father Charters, and the middle son is Jack, who is five years older.
And as with virtually every boy
Glenmary missionary reflects on five-decade vocation
Kathy O'Brien retires but is still active
By Omar Cabrera Glenmary Home Missioners
Kathy O’Brien is wrapping up a 50-year career as a member of the Glenmary Lay Missionaries.
More than half a century ago, Ms. O’Brien had her first contact with the institute through a vocation brochure that was on a classroom table at her university in Wisconsin.
“I contacted them to ask if they would accept a volunteer for part of the summer,” she recalled.
The answer was yes.
“So, I got on a Greyhound bus and traveled to West Point, Miss.”
That summer, Ms. O’Brien helped lead Bible schools with the Lay Missionaries of Glenmary. She liked the experience so much that she stayed a week longer than expected.
She felt that she probably wanted to join the women’s institute. Her leaders recommended that she finish college and then return if she was still interested. And that’s just what
she did.
In September 1974, after completing her religious training, she joined the group.
“Since then, I’ve always worked in teaching and parish work,” Ms. O’Brien said.
Her most recent and final assignment before retiring was as a pastoral associate at St. Michael the Archangel Mission in upper East Tennessee.
“She developed our youth ministry here,” said Glenmary priest Father Tom Charters, who has served as pastor of St. Michael from its founding in 2011. “She developed our religious-education program here. She was also instrumental in working with the Hispanic community.”
Ms. O’Brien learned Spanish years ago in Mexico before accepting an assignment in Waldron, Ark., where Glenmary served a large Hispanic population.
“By then I was about 50 years old,” she said. “It wasn’t easy.”
Ms. O’Brien, who now is in her
born into the Catholic faith, he thought about becoming a priest as a young child, especially in elementary school when the question was posed: Who has ever thought about becoming a priest?
“I really got serious about it in high school. My freshman year, I was educated by the Brothers of Mary, the Marianist Brothers of Dayton, Ohio. I was at Chaminade High School, and they had a vocations day my freshman year. They had a book with the different
religious communities, and one of them was the Glenmary Home Missioners,” Father Charters said.
He had heard of the Glenmarys from a priest who visited his parish when Father Charters was about 12 years old and spoke about “No Priest Land USA,” a model for evangelization created by Glenmary founder Father William Howard, who developed a map of mission need in the United States. At the time, about 100 years ago, there were more than 1,000 counties in the United States without a resident priest.
As a high-school senior, Father Charters said a teacher encouraged him to pursue the Glenmary Home Missioners.
“During my senior year, I really got to thinking, ‘What do I want to do?’ My history teacher, who was a layman, said Glenmary works in the fields. They work in all these agricultural areas. You have to know something about farming. So, I talked to him about it, and he said, ‘Give it a try,’” the 76-yearold priest recalled.
“There was no knowledge of farming involved in Glenmary at all,” Father Charters said laughing
Fifty years a priest Above: Father Tom Charters, GHM, celebrates Mass at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Erwin on June 8. Father Charters marked the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on May 17. Below: Father Charters distributes Communion to young parishioners at St. Michael the Archangel. Father Charters established the Unicoi County Catholic community in September 2011 and has served in Erwin since then.
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
Listening to the whisper, feeling the nudge
Men 's Discernment Group contributes to Diocese of Knoxville vocations
By Bill Brewer
Every fourth Saturday of each month a group of men gather in the Diocese of Knoxville Chancery for fellowship and discussion about Catholicism led by Father Mark Schuster or Father Arthur Torres.
While fellowship is common around the diocese and an excellent way to deepen individual faith in a group setting, the Chancery gathering is unique.
These individuals are discerning a call to the priesthood. And the Men’s Discernment Group is making a difference as are Father Schuster and Father Torres.
Father Schuster, who is pastor of St. John Neumann Parish in Farragut, is vocations director for the diocese, and Father Torres, who is pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Chattanooga, serves as the assistant vocations director.
Sam Sompayrac, Rick Hoelzel, and Dr. Tim Truster are among those participating in the Discernment Group, sharing their thoughts and asking questions about answering the call they all have heard—God’s whisper (perhaps a shout) or nudge to join Him in ministering to His people.
The three men since June have been informed that they have been accepted into seminary beginning with the fall semester.
Mr. Sompayrac and Mr. Hoelzel will be attending St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Ind. Dr. Truster will study for two years at DePaul University in Chicago, completing pre-seminary coursework that will lead to a theology curriculum at the Catholic Theological Union, a graduate school of theology in Chicago.
The discernment stories shared are as distinctive as the individuals sharing them.
Pulled in a direction he didn’t intend to go
Sam Sompayrac is a 2021 graduate of Knoxville Catholic High School. The Fighting Irish alum graduated from the University of Alabama in May with degrees in finance, Spanish, and liberal arts.
He was raised in a Catholic household, attending Mass regularly, first at All Saints Church in Knoxville and then at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut. He attended kindergarten through eighth grade at St. John Neumann School.
While the Catholic faith was part of his daily life growing up, he never really considered a vocation until he began to hear the call in college.
“I had just finished my sophomore year at Alabama, and I was going into my junior year. That’s when I first felt a calling to the priesthood. During the previous year I was really obsessed with learning things about my faith. Why do I believe what I believe? At the University of Alabama, we have an amazing Catholic Center. And I had friends who said I was the first Catholic person they had ever met in their life, so they asked me questions that I really didn’t know the answer to,” Mr. Sompayrac said.
At this point, Mr. Sompayrac, who will turn 23 in August, began immersing himself in his faith.
“My parents saw me doing this and saw me going to Mass more and prioritizing prayer,” he said. “For me personally in this moment, I was going from learning things about God to starting to get to know God.”
Concurrently, his mother asked him if he had ever thought about becoming a priest.
“I gave her the honest answer: Nope! I had never thought about it,” he said. “I remember thinking when I was doing all that research into the faith that this is so awesome. I wish I could just do this for my job. I wish I could do this forever. But I didn’t think about the priesthood, which is funny.”
At that point, he began to debate
Faith and fellowship Above: Seminarian Sam Sompayrac, right, enjoys a summer moment with his younger brother, Nicholas. Below: Young men taking part in the Diocese of Knoxville Men's Discernment Group gather for dinner at the Chop House restaurant in Farragut. Clockwise from left are Eli Holt, Rick Hoelzel, Gerald Stults, Nicholas Hickman, Daniel Cooper, Ethan Abla, Sam Sompayrac, Derek Meyers, and James Meadows. The young men, who meet regularly for fellowship, are either already in seminary or discerning a call to the priesthood.
himself about becoming a priest.
“It was a moment of discernment. I was still in that process of getting to know God and falling in love with God, and that was amazing,” he shared.
He began attending daily Mass in Tuscaloosa, Ala., and regularly going to adoration. And he could feel that gentle nudge, which was increasing in regularity.
“Every time the thought of the priesthood would come up, I would kind of just say, ‘Amen,’ and leave. I wasn’t really open to it. But I would pray about it and say, ‘God, just give me something,’” he said.
“I was first really against it. But I began to open my heart to the idea. However, I was still wrestling with the thought. I prayed, ‘God, I want to have a family.’ And the first thought in my head was that I would have the
played football. And at Alabama, he considered walking on to the Crimson Tide basketball team until a leg injury sidelined him.
Instead, he opted to play on the scrimmage squad of young men who practiced against the Crimson Tide women’s basketball team.
Athletics run in the Sompayrac family. Mr. Sompayrac’s three brothers also have played sports. Jack is 25 and now lives in Knoxville. Ben is 21 and attends the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. And Nicholas is 11 and goes to St. John Neumann School, where his mother, Jenifer, is a teacher. Mr. Sompayrac’s father, Dickie, is president of Knoxville Catholic High School.
Mr. Sompayrac explained that he met with Father Torres in January of his junior year in college (2024) to further explore a vocation. He also discussed a possible vocation with priests in Tuscaloosa, which is when Monsignor Michael Deering, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in Tuscaloosa, recommended he read To Save a Thousand Souls: A Guide for Discerning a Vocation to the Diocesan Priesthood by Father Brett A. Brannen.
He has been an active participant in the diocesan Men’s Discernment Group since its beginning, taking part via Zoom from Tuscaloosa.
In his discernment, Mr. Sompayrac considered becoming a priest in the Diocese of Birmingham, Ala., the Diocese of Knoxville, or possibly a religious order. However, he felt called to East Tennessee.
“I was really nervous about the meeting with Father Arthur. I would feel myself going against the call to the priesthood. And then it was easy for me to feel it as a calling. I felt myself being pulled in a direction I didn’t want to go,” he shared.
The first reading at Mass the day he was to meet with Father Torres was the call of Samuel (1 Samuel 3).
“That very much felt like the confirmation of a good decision in that moment,” he said. “It was like an OK for me to have this meeting with Father Arthur. That was really cool.”
From January through June 2024, Mr. Sompayrac immersed himself in a study-abroad program in Madrid, Spain. During this period, he also immersed himself in his faith with the help of the Catholic Church in Madrid.
He cemented his discernment during his senior year at Alabama, resisting the urge to halt his undergraduate studies and enter seminary right away. Priests from whom he sought counsel advised him to complete his studies and earn his degrees.
He recalls with great affection Catholic role models at St. John Neumann School: Sister Maureen Ouma, ESM, and Sister Angela Nikwobazeirwe, ESM.
biggest family ever,” he continued.
“And then one time I was like, ‘God, I want to hold my newborn baby.’ But as I closed my eyes and pictured it, I was baptizing someone’s newborn baby. Every time I had an objection there was this response that satisfied that objection.”
Just as with most, if not all, individuals discerning a religious life, Mr. Sompayrac had laid out a career track that he intended to pursue. He would graduate from Alabama and then attend law school. In his junior year, his desire began to shift from law to longing to become a saint.
He described his newfound vocation track as “exhilarating.”
Mr. Sompayrac has never been far from his faith. While active in sports in high school and college, church was always part of daily life. He excelled in basketball at KCHS and also
“I would say both Sister Maureen and Sister Angela are people I kept in mind a lot during my discernment. They definitely played a role in that. … I remembered the things they had taught me in school,” Mr. Sompayrac said, specifically mentioning the time in sixth grade when he got in trouble for talking too much in school and he had to hold the hand of his teacher, Sister Maureen, while walking to Mass and during Mass.
Sister Angela was able to corral Mr. Sompayrac’s youthful exuberance by inviting him to sing in the school choir during Mass.
“This was amazing. I was the first one to raise my hand. Man, I can’t sing a lick. But they let me join. And I knew then that God is real. That was the first time I knew my prayers were answered,” he shared. “Of course, how many times had they been answered before that? Countless. But I recognized it there in that moment.”
Other priests Mr. Sompayrac mentioned as influential in his formation are Father Michael Woods, who served as pastor of All Saints Parish; Monsignor Patrick Garrity, who
Discern
BILL BREWER
COURTESY OF RICK HOELZEL
Stats reveal Catholic population growth, fewer pastoral workers
Vatican releases 2025 Pontifical Yearbook with details about priests, religious
By Vatican News
The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has published the Pontifical Yearbook 2025 and the Annuarium Statisticum Ecclesiae 2023 , which was compiled by the Central Office of Church Statistics, a department of the Secretariat of State.
The data reported in the Pontifical Yearbook offers information regarding the life of the Catholic Church worldwide for 2024. During this period, one ecclesiastical province was created; three episcopal sees were elevated to Metropolitan Sees; seven new dioceses were established; one episcopal see was elevated to an archdiocese; and an apostolic administration was elevated to a diocese.
The Annuarium Statisticum Ecclesiae offers a snapshot of the main quantitative phenomena concerning the pastoral activity of the Catholic Church worldwide, including statistical insights for the biennium 2022–23.
Global Catholic population
The global Catholic population increased by 1.15 percent between 2022 and 2023, rising from approximately 1.39 billion to 1.406 billion, a percentage very similar to that of the previous biennium. The distribution of baptized Catholics varies in the various geographic areas, in accordance with the different demographics of each continent.
Africa includes 20 percent of the Catholics on the entire planet and is characterized by a highly dynamic spread of the Catholic Church. The number of Catholics increased from 272 million in 2022 to 281 million in 2023, with a relative variation of plus-3.31 percent.
The Democratic Republic of Congo confirms its first-place position for the number of baptized Catholics, with almost 55 million, followed by Nigeria with 35 million; Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya also register significant figures.
With a growth of 0.9 percent over the biennium, the Americas consolidate their position as the continents to which 47.8 percent of the world’s Catholics belong. Of these, 27.4 percent reside in South America (where Brazil, with 182 million, represents 13 percent of the world total and continues to be the country with the highest concentration of Catholics), 6.6 percent in North America, and the remaining 13.8 percent in Central America. When the number of Catholics is compared with the total population, Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay stand out, with a Catholic incidence exceeding 90 percent of the population.
The Asian continent records a growth of Catholics of 0.6 percent over the biennium, and its weight in 2023 is around 11 percent of the global Catholic population. In 2023, 76.7 percent of Southeast Asian Catholics were concentrated in the Philippines, with 93 million, and in India, with 23 million.
Europe, while hosting 20.4 percent of the world Catholic community, confirms itself as the least dynamic area, with an increase
Catholic continued from page A4
Faith that is overflowing Above: Father Bob O'Donnell, CSP, celebrates Mass on Ash Wednesday, March 5, at St. John XXIII Catholic Center on the University of Tennessee-Knoxville campus. Attendance was standing-room only, with an overflow of students filling the commons area. Below: Some of the more than 300 people who joined the Catholic Church in East Tennessee at Easter vigil gather for a group picture at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus during the Rite of Election service on March 8. Bishop Mark Beckman presided at the service.
in the number of Catholics over the biennium of just 0.2 percent. This variation, on the other hand, in the face of an almost stagnant demographic dynamic, translates into a slight improvement in territorial presence, which reaches nearly 39.6 percent in 2023. Italy, Poland, and Spain boast a Catholic incidence exceeding 90 percent of the resident population.
The Catholics of Oceania, which comprises the continent of Australia, New Zealand, and the islands of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia, numbered just over 11 million in 2023, an increase of 1.9 percent compared with 2022.
Growing number of bishops
The number of bishops in the Catholic Church has grown over the last biennium, with an overall variation of 1.4 percent, rising from 5,353 in 2022 to 5,430 in 2023. This growth trend is observed in all continents, with the exception of Oceania, where the number of bishops has not changed over the biennium.
The relative variation is somewhat more pronounced for Africa and Asia and below the world average for Europe and America. It can also be noted that the relative weight of each continent remains nearly unchanged during the period, proportional to the relative importance of the individual continental realities, with a greater concentration of bishops in America and Europe. In Africa, the share of bishops in the world
the University of Notre Dame from Palm Sunday through Easter vespers. If you want to go to the Easter vigil, you need to wait in a long line. The vigil begins at 9 p.m., but the doors open at 7 p.m. So, eager students began lining up for a prime seat in the basilica at 5:45. That is, 5:45 a.m., more than 15 hours before the service began. That is enthusiasm in the root sense of the term.
What made Holy Week at Notre Dame so beautiful? The choir singing Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater would melt the heart of the abominable snowman. The gradual extinguishing of all lights in the Tenebrae service with the thunderous strepitus in total darkness made me feel the power of infernal forces. But the most beautiful part of Holy Week for me came during the Easter vigil. We witnessed the baptism of 23 students. After they were baptized, the congregation gave them an ovation of thunderous applause lasting, it seemed, three or four minutes.
total rises from 13.8 percent in 2022 to 14.2 percent in 2023.
The number of Catholics per bishop in 2023 varied significantly from continent to continent. While the global average is 259,000 Catholics per bishop, values of 365,000 and 334,000 are recorded for Africa and America, respectively. Particularly favorable is the situation in Oceania, where each bishop is responsible for 87,000 Catholics, which, from this point of view, indicates a slight excess of bishops compared with other continents.
Fewer priests
At the end of 2023, within the 3,041 ecclesiastical jurisdictions in the Catholic world, there were 406,996 priests, with a decrease of 734 compared with 2022, equivalent to minus-0.2 percent. The analysis by geographical area highlights an increase in Africa (plus-2.7 percent) and Asia (plus1.6 percent) and a decrease in Europe (minus-1.6 percent), in Oceania (minus-1 percent), and in America (minus-0.7 percent).
In addition to the continents, a comparison of the distinction between diocesan and religious priests reveals that, in Asia and Africa, the overall increase in priests is attributable to the dynamics of both diocesan and religious priests.
In Africa, in particular, the overall increase in priests results from an increase of approximately 3.3 percent in diocesan priests and 1.4 percent in religious priests. On the
As recent convert Sydney Johnston put it, “There’s just something so beautiful and transcendent about the rituals and the ancient history in the Catholic Mass that’s been preserved. … The Church really communicates a degree of reverence that I didn’t find in the more liberal, laissez-faire approach of nondenominational churches.”
Although many people begin their journey to the Church online, the destination is personal, concrete, and incarnational
The Church is in a prime position to supply what is lacking in today’s culture. As professor Jeffrey Pojanowski pointed out:
“In a disembodied time, [the Church] is resolutely concrete: the splash of holy water, the smear of oil, the pinch of exorcising salt, the smell of incense, the quiet voice of absolution in your ear, the gentle slap of confirmation, St. Blaise’s candles on your throat, the laying on—or grasp—of hands, the gentle ache of the knees at consecration, the weird, withered
American continents, the increase in diocesan clergy over the biennium stands out in Central and Latin America. In Europe, however, a reduction of 1.6 percent is observed both overall and in its individual components (diocesan and religious); the same pattern, though with a smaller decline (minus-1 percent), is observed in Oceania.
The distribution in 2023 by geographical area highlights that while 38.1 percent of the total priests are in Europe, 29.1 percent belong to the American continents, while the other continental areas follow with 18.2 percent in Asia, 13.5 percent in Africa, and 1.1 percent in Oceania.
The structural analysis of priests can be supplemented with that of Catholics to highlight any imbalances between the demand and supply of pastoral service. In the case of a perfect balance between the presence and the need for pastoral activity, the percentage composition of priests should coincide, for each territorial area examined, with that of Catholics. In reality, a comparison between the percentage composition of priests and Catholics shows that in 2023, significant discrepancies were recorded.
In particular, the percentages of priests exceed those of Catholics in North America (10.3 percent of priests compared to 6.6 percent of Catholics), in Europe (38.1 percent of priests and 20.4 percent of Catholics), and in Oceania (1.1 percent of priests and 0.8 percent of Catholics). The most evident shortages of priests are found in South America (12.4 percent of priests and 27.4 percent of Catholics), in Africa (13.5 percent of priests and 20 percent of Catholics), and in the Central Continental region of the Americas (5.4 percent of priests and 11.6 percent of Catholics).
A larger cohort of permanent deacons
Permanent deacons constitute the group of clergy that is growing most vigorously. In 2023, their number reached 51,433 compared with the 50,150 recorded in 2022, with an increase of 2.6 percent.
Territorial disparities remain pronounced: significant growth rates are observed in Oceania (plus-10.8 percent) and the Americas (plus3.8 percent), while slight declines are recorded in Africa and Europe.
No significant changes in the global distribution of deacons are noted during the biennium considered, except for a decrease in the relative number of deacons in Europe and an increase in that of America, mainly due to substantial growth in North America.
This category of pastoral worker is particularly present in the Americas (especially in North America, which accounts for 39 percent of all deacons worldwide) and also in Europe (31 percent).
To highlight the supportive role of these workers in pastoral action alongside priests, one can consider the ratio of the number of permanent deacons, area by area,
Growth continued on page A16
relic of a saint, and, of course, the taste of bread and wine that are, mysteriously, His flesh and blood— suffering embraced and given loving meaning. This revolution will not be digitized.”
As so many young people around the world have recently discovered, the Church offers what cannot be found anywhere else. ■
Dr. Christopher Kaczor is the Honorary Professor for the Renewal of Catholic Intellectual Life at the Word on Fire Institute and professor of philosophy at Loyola Marymount University. A Fulbright scholar, his 18 books include "Thomas Aquinas on Faith, Hope, and Love" and "Thomas Aquinas on the Cardinal Virtues." He was appointed a von Humbolt Fellow, a member of the Pontifical Academy for Life, a visiting fellow at the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame, and William E. Simon Visiting Fellow at Princeton University. He is president-elect of the American Catholic Philosophical Association and he can be found on X at @Prof_Kaczor.
BILL BREWER (2)
Boston to Baton Rouge, faithful unite to aid flood victims
Catholic Charities USA launches donation campaign to help hard-hit Texas region
By Gina Christian OSV News
From Boston to Baton Rouge, La., faithful across the nation are reaching out to bring material and spiritual aid to those impacted by the devastating July 4 flash floods in the Texas Hill Country.
The deluge has so far killed at least 132 among them, dozens of children with another 160 or more still missing.
Catholic Charities USA, the official domestic relief agency of the Catholic Church in the nation, has launched a donation campaign that can be accessed online at catholiccharitiesusa.
org
In Texas, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of San Antonio is offering assistance with emergency finances, short-term housing, funeral expenses, counseling, legal services, and other immediate needs, according to its website.
The archdiocese’s territory includes the flood-ravaged areas, with Arch-
bishop Gustavo García-Siller making a pastoral visit hours after the disaster and celebrating Mass at Notre Dame Church in Kerrville, Texas, for all those affected.
The agency also is accepting donations online at ccaosa.ejoinme.org/ helptoday “With our wraparound services, we can support this community with the love and care of emergency assistance, counseling, and other services to provide comfort in their time of need,” said the agency on its donation page. “Our prayers remain for all who are impacted by the flooding. You can join us in supporting our neighbors as they journey through this crisis.”
On July 7, Bishop Gregory Kelly of Tyler, Texas, announced a special July 12-13 collection for victims, coordinated through Catholic Charities of East Texas, “to provide the assistance needed by so many during these difficult days.”
In Dallas, Bishop Edward J. Burns scheduled an emergency second col-
Road in the East Ridge community.
“The beginning of the church used to have the old, and it is attractive. You can tell that it is attractive. Once the entire remodel is done, you will be able to tell that it was worth it to undergo this process,” Father Torres said.
The project began June 9 and is expected to be completed July 22, assuming everything goes as planned. Since construction work began, Father Torres and associate pastor Father Andrew Crabtree have been celebrating daily Mass in the parish life center, which is just outside the church nave and sanctuary. Sunday Masses have been celebrated in the OLPH School gym.
“We are crossing our fingers,” he said with a smile. “This project is moving quickly. We have had lots of talks with the architect and the contractor.”
The project architect is Neuhoff Taylor of Chattanooga, and the contractor is T.U. Parks, also of Chattanooga.
Father Torres explained that discussion about an upgrade to the church first took place last year, with the first phase being repairs to the roof. Another phase is creating a vesting sacristy for priests because the existing sacristy was small and had only one closet in which four priests could vest.
He further explained that the new vesting sacristy was formerly the adoration chapel. The adoration chapel proved to be an unworkable space for its intended use.
“The former adoration chapel was sitting there doing nothing and full of chairs. So, we said let’s remove those chairs and let’s have this as our vesting sacristy for us priests and deacons. That was the second phase,” he shared. The third phase of the project is the renovation of the church interior, and a fourth phase is a rectory for the OLPH priests.
The parish has purchased a house adjoining the OLPH property that is just behind the Our Lady of Perpetual Help School gym.
Father Torres noted that the house has structural problems and will be torn down and a new house built on the site. The new home will be able to house three priests and a seminarian. The back yard of the house touches the school parking lot.
Father Torres finds great fulfillment in help -
lection for July 19-20 to support both immediate and long-term needs for survivors. The funds, which will be sent directly to Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of San Antonio, “will provide food, shelter, aid, and hope,” the diocese said on its website.
Along with encouraging financial contributions to San Antonio’s Catholic Charities agency, the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has asked for donations of baby items, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies, which its Catholic Charities office will accept for delivery to its San Antonio counterpart.
The archdiocese also said on its website that the Veteran Success Center at the University of St. Thomas in Houston held a July 10 drive-through drop-off, gathering nonperishable food, bottled water, gently used clothing and shoes, and dog and cat food.
In Louisiana, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux said it teamed up with Catholic Charities of Acadiana for a July 16 “itemspecific supply drive” at several loca-
tions “to collect essential relief items for flood survivors.”
The donations, which will be transported to Catholic Charities responding on site in the flood region, are set to include trash bags, cleaning supplies, diapers, detergent, and $25 Visa gift cards.
The Diocese of Baton Rouge organized a July 17 donation drive at its Catholic Charities office, seeking $25 gift cards for Visa or Walmart, along with monetary donations of any amount. The funds will be sent to Catholic Charities in San Antonio for distribution to those in need.
“We’ve been in touch with Catholic Charities agencies serving the impacted area, and the greatest need right now is monetary donations and gift cards,” Stephanie Sterling, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, said in a diocesan media release. “The devastation this flooding has caused is staggering, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to help our neighbors in Texas.” ■
Work in progress Left: Father Arthur Torres, pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Chattanooga, stands in the sanctuary of OLPH Church that is being renovated. Father Torres said efforts are underway to update the church altar as part of the project. Above: Workers replace the OLPH Church floor and perform detailed drywall work in the nave. Once completed, OLPH will have restored much of the church to its original design.
"The goal was $1.2 million. And we raised $1.6 million. You can tell how supportive the community has been. Everybody has been contributing to it. It's very, very impressive. And it's important to remember that we are a working-class community."
Father Arthur Torres, Our Lady of Perpetual Help pastor
ing the OLPH community give a comprehensive upgrade to the parish facilities. Taking place concurrently with the church work is a renovation of the school’s upper level, converting a storage area into classroom space.
“I love beyond measure the OLPH family. They have been so supportive. They accepted this plan. They agree that we need to have renovation inside the church. And also because our heritage families, knowing what their great-grandparents and grandparents have told them about OLPH Church, they thought it was a good idea to expose, first of all, the floor. Why have carpet over a terrazzo floor? That makes no sense,” Father Torres said.
The project so far has yielded more than one surprise.
“There have been lots of new discoveries in this process. We found the side altars under Mary and Joseph in the middle of the church, so the pedestals they are standing on used to be the side altars before. We have discovered the rest of the shape of the altar that has been covered by the carpet and a piece of wood that was placed as an extension of one of those shapes and has been covered by the organ as well,” he said.
Father Torres was looking forward to the completion of the carpet and underlayment removal in the sanctuary because he was told there is a beautiful cross design on the original floor.
Father Torres expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of the OLPH community for their generosity in making the project possible. He explained that the parish held a capital campaign to raise funds for the work.
“The goal was $1.2 million. And we raised $1.6 million. You can tell how supportive the community has been. Everybody has been
contributing to it. It’s very, very impressive. And it’s important to remember that we are a working-class community,” Father Torres said.
He pointed out that as the roof and vesting sacristy phases have been completed, and the church interior renovation is in progress, the final phase the rectory project will begin after phase three is complete.
He said the nave and sanctuary are the priority.
Father Torres described how the four phases of the project have been a leap of faith of sorts.
“Oh, the unknowns. You don’t know what you’re going to find. It’s been a little bit scary for us. There has been some anxiety. What if there is a big crack that we cannot fix? What are we going to do? So far, the Lord has blessed us. There have been just little cracks. Nothing big, nothing major,” he said.
“Our biggest fear has been removing the altar. What are we going to find underneath?” he asked.
He recalled that the OLPH interior was damaged by fire in the late 1980s or early 1990s, which required some refurbishment.
As OLPH works to update its altar, the centerpiece of its worship space, Father Torres hopes to host Bishop Mark Beckman for a dedication of the renovated nave and sanctuary and consecration of the new altar.
“Once everything is complete, we want to bring Bishop Beckman here for a rededication of the church,” he said.
Father Torres has been monitoring progress on the work daily, and he remains hopeful the project will be on schedule. But he also knows construction projects often encounter unexpected delays.
In the meantime, OLPH parishioners and supporters of the faith community are anxious to see the “new” church interior.
Father Torres also is directing the school upgrade to convert storage space to classroom space, which should be completed by the time school begins in August.
Also in the school, older windows are being replaced and roof repairs have been made.
“I love what’s happening right now. And I love what’s happening for the community with the renovation of the church and upgrades to the school. I know many people have been waiting for it to happen,” he said. ■
BILL BREWER (2)
OLPH continued from page A4
‘Called to embody Jesus’ presence’ Diocesan seminarians share their summer experiences
By Gabrielle Nolan
During the fall and spring semesters of the academic year, diocesan seminarians are poring over philosophy and theology textbooks in classrooms, preparing to pass final exams.
But the learning does not stop over the summer season; it just looks a little different.
Seminarians experience a summer assignment where they are immersed in a pastoral setting, such as a parish or a hospital, to gain practical insight into the life of a priest. They trade textbooks for hands-on experiences, and instead of living in the seminary, they live in a parish rectory.
The five Diocese of Knoxville seminarians are sharing their experiences and how they are continuing their journey toward the priesthood.
Nicholas Hickman will begin his sixth year of priestly formation in August. He attends St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Indiana. Mr. Hickman’s summer assignment is Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville.
“As part of my summer assignment, I’ve been serving as a chaplain intern at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, participating in a program accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE),” Mr. Hickman said. He shared that CPE is recognized nationally as an opportunity that trains seminarians, clergy, and lay leaders to offer spiritual care with people in clinical settings.
“Chaplains at UT Medical Center are responsible for the emotional and spiritual well-being of patients, their families, and hospital staff,” Mr. Hickman said. “Our work includes being present to people in crisis, advocating for patients’ religious and spiritual needs, and supporting them in practicing their faith—whether Catholic, Protestant, of another religious tradition, or none at all.”
Some engagements with clinical patients include arranging sacraments, offering prayer, coordinating visits from other faith leaders, or simply being present during a time of need.
“In addition to ongoing rounds, chaplains are paged to respond to all traumas, code blues, heart attacks, and strokes, as well as referrals from staff or patients themselves. The pastoralcare team is ecumenical and interfaith, allowing for collaborative ministry that honors the dignity and beliefs of every person. Through this, I’ve grown in my ability to listen deeply, accompany others with empathy, and hold space for people’s stories—especially in moments of fear, suffering, grief, and even death. It has been a sacred privilege to walk with people through some of the most vulnerable thresholds of their lives,” Mr. Hickman remarked.
He said that each patient’s room he enters is “holy ground.”
“Sometimes there are tears—grieving spouses, parents saying goodbye, patients receiving difficult news. Other times, there is peace, laughter, or an unshakable sense of faith and hope. I often feel as though I am standing at the foot of the cross, and it is humbling to bring the heart of Christ into those rooms,” Mr. Hickman said. Through his experiences as a summer chaplain, Mr. Hickman is continuing his journey toward becoming a diocesan priest.
“This assignment has helped me to more deeply internalize what it means to act in the person of Christ. As a future priest, I will be called to embody Jesus’ presence—especially in moments of suffering, fear, and grief,” he shared. “This summer has taught me how to walk into a room not with answers but with presence. To stand quietly, listen fully, and love generously. In many ways, I am learning that priesthood is less about what we say and more about who we are willing to be for others.”
“I have come to see that there is something sacred about simply being with someone in their pain—something deeply eucharistic about standing with others in their breaking and offering,” Mr. Hickman continued. “This experience has impressed upon me the responsibility, and the grace, of being a sign of Christ’s love for those who feel most alone. As St. John Paul II once said, ‘There is no cross, big or small, in our life which the Lord does not share with us.’ This summer, I have learned to trust that—especially when I am standing at the foot of someone else's cross.”
Daniel Cooper just completed his fifth year in seminary with plans to graduate from St. Meinrad Seminary this December. His summer assignment is at All Saints Parish in Knoxville. His responsibilities have included assisting with Masses as an acolyte, assisting office staff with various work, contributing to vacation Bible school, and interacting with parish groups.
“Every week I also work with a small men’s
group who go through various Catholic and spiritual books and have discussions about the faith and the material read. This has been an interesting task because of the varied perspectives that the men each bring to the group and how they relate to the world through their faith,” Mr. Cooper said.
He commented that he has enjoyed helping in every capacity with the parish so far this summer
“If there is anything challenging, it is dealing with the new Program for Priestly Formation and how it places the ordination to the diaconate into the fall/winter of the final year,” Mr. Cooper shared. “This has created quite a bit of friction at times when people have asked for a blessing, only for me to have to tell them that I am unable to do so. On the other hand, it also provides more appreciation for the ordained ministry and the fact that the people associate a man in a collar with Christ and His ability to bless their lives and endeavors.”
Recent staff changes at All Saints Parish have given Mr. Cooper the opportunity to “step up in some leadership capacity and self-starting ability.”
“We have been quite unsettled with the departure of a priest back to his home country and the absence of our pastor for health reasons,” he explained. “This is something that has caused all of the staff to grow closer and rely on each other more to continue the work of the Church and to continue to effectively minister to the people. This has provided a good insight into the ‘messiness’ that the priestly life can sometimes be and how we have to be flexible and rely wholeheartedly on God in order to be able to be sustained in the ministry.”
Abrahan da Silva is in his fifth year of seminary formation and is currently studying at St. Augustine’s Seminary of Toronto in Canada. His summer assignment is at Holy Rosary Parish in Toronto.
“Looking back, I never would have imagined that God would lead me down this path,” he said. “It’s not so much about what I am doing, but where I am doing it. However, my call to the priesthood didn’t come all at once—it was more like a seed that gradually grew over time through encounters with Jesus in the Eucharist, moments of prayer, and above all, through a deep desire to serve. Today, five years after giving that initial ‘yes’ during the COVID-19 pandemic, I can say that each stage has been different but always enriching. Seminary formation has prepared me not only through academic studies but also through community life, interior growth, and pastoral discernment.”
His daily tasks at Holy Rosary Parish include participating in the celebration of the Eucharist,
Summer continued on page A16
Scan here to learn more about the Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries
for your commitment to the 2025 Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries!
Mary’s “yes” to God was an act of trust, courage, and love— one that changed the world forever. Inspired by her example, you, too, have said “yes” through your prayers and generosity. Thank you for supporting the 2025 Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries and making Christ’s love known throughout East Tennessee. Your gifts help sustain the ministries that serve our diocese, from forming future priests and supporting our deacons to nurturing children in the faith and providing essential outreach through Catholic Charities and St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic. Because of you, free healthcare reaches those in need, faith formation programs continue to grow, and seminarians can follow the call God has placed on their hearts. Every act of generosity, no matter the size, is a reflection of Mary’s trust in God’s plan. Your “yes” is a gift to the Church and to all those who rely on these ministries. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries—your faith and generosity are transforming lives!
Together, we are building a vibrant, loving community that reflects Christ’s love and mission.
Thank you for being a part of this journey!
Enjoying religious life Seminarian Gerald Stults, left, enjoys a summer event with Father Ray Powell at St. Mary Church in Oak Ridge
DIOCESE OF KNOXVILLE
deacons,” Bishop Beckman said The convocation was thoughtfully planned and organized by Father Michael Cummins, diocesan vicar for priests, who this year is marking his 30th anniversary as a priest (see story on page B1).
Father Cummins organized the Knoxville convocation in collaboration with Father Michael Maples, who previously served as co-chair of the diocesan Priestly Life and Ministry Committee. Their shared vision was to offer priests a time of spiritual renewal, fraternal support, and ongoing formation while also addressing some of the most pressing pastoral priorities in the life of the diocese, among them, the promotion of vocations.
Drawing from their experience in priestly ministry and leadership, both priests helped shape a program that balanced prayer, teaching, personal witness, and practical resources to equip clergy with the tools and inspiration needed to guide their parishes in responding to God’s call.
The priests were also blessed by the hospitality of Immaculate Conception Parish, which hosted daily Mass and welcomed the priests to a special barbecue dinner on the second evening, a joyful occasion that fostered fellowship among the clergy
A vocation specialist’s opinion
The main presenter at the convocation was Rhonda Gruenewald, founder of Vocation Ministry, a nationwide apostolate that helps dioceses in vocation promotion.
“I was very impressed with the record of results that Vocation Ministry has with the many dioceses they have assisted in promoting vocations,” Bishop Beckman shared. “One of the most important things for a growing Church like ours is the sacramental life of the Church, especially the celebration of the Eucharist. The liturgy is the summit and source of our life as Christians, and the ministry of priests is essential to sacraments.”
Vocation Ministry, now in its 10th year since its founding, has visited and partnered with 75 dioceses around the United States.
“We unite with dioceses to train, equip, and encourage vocation directors, priests, and laity. Together, we cultivate and nurture vocations to the priesthood, consecrated life, and sacramental marriage, fostering a response that yields a hundredfold harvest,” Vocation Ministry’s mission statement says.
“I was inspired by Bishop Beckman, in particular, who has such a heart for vocations and a vision of youth and young adults eagerly seeking the Lord’s will in their lives,” Mrs. Gruenewald added.
Mrs. Gruenewald’s keynote presentations provided a compelling overview of the current state of vocations, both nationally and within the Diocese of Knoxville. She emphasized the urgent need to cultivate a culture of vocations through intentional promotion and support at the parish level.
Her message highlighted practical strategies for fostering vocations, including prayer initiatives, educational programs, and community involvement that can inspire young people to consider a call to the priesthood or religious life. Drawing from both national data and diocesan statistics, Mrs. Gruenewald noted a striking reality: in order to adequately serve the rapidly growing Catholic population of East Tennessee, the Diocese of Knoxville would need to add approximately eight new seminarians each year.
This data underscores the importance of every parish playing an active role in encouraging vocations, as the future of the Church in East Tennessee depends on a collective response to this need.
“In this Jubilee Year of Hope and with our new American Pope Leo XIV, it is easy to see the wonderful possibilities that can come to the Diocese of Knoxville. Vocation Ministry’s 2025 State of Priestly Vocations Report notes that smaller dioceses with fewer Catholics per
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
priest (like Knoxville, with roughly 1,000 Catholics per priest) tend to have better vocation outcomes due to stronger personal connections,” Mrs. Gruenewald answered when asked what signs of hope she saw in the Diocese of Knoxville.
“If the priests and laity tend and fertilize the soil in the parishes so that the Holy Spirit has plenty of opportunities to call forth more holy priests, religious Sisters and Brothers, and married couples, the diocese will see a hundredfold yield,” she continued.
One valuable resource Mrs. Gruenewald shared with the priests during the presentation was her book Hundredfold: A Guide to Parish Vocation Ministry. This comprehensive guide equips parishes with a wide range of practical tools and ideas to promote vocations at every level of parish life.
The book is thoughtfully organized into sections featuring activities tailored for youth groups, Catholicschool classrooms, families, and parish-wide initiatives, making it accessible and adaptable to a variety of settings. Whether a parish is just beginning to develop a vocation ministry or looking to expand existing efforts, Hundredfold offers stepby-step guidance, sample materials, and inspiring success stories from other parishes.
As a gesture of support and encouragement, each priest in attendance received a copy of Hundredfold through an anonymous donation to take back to his parish and begin, or continue, building a culture of vocations.
“Each priest has the incredible opportunity, along with the laity, to cooperate with the Holy Spirit to invite and encourage the next generation of holy priests, Sisters, and married couples,” Mrs. Gruenewald noted, underscoring the collaborative nature of vocation promotion.
Mrs. Gruenewald encouraged priests to incorporate vocations into the life of the Church, not by adding entirely new programs but by enriching the events and activities that are already part of parish life. She offered practical and accessible ways to weave a vocation-focused message into familiar settings, such as holy hours, the rosary, and eucharistic adoration, by offering these devotions for the intention of vocations and inviting parishioners to pray specifically for young people discerning God’s call.
In faith formation classes and sacramental preparation, catechists can highlight the beauty and importance of each vocation: marriage, priesthood, religious life, and consecrated single life, planting seeds in the hearts of children and teens.
Mrs. Gruenewald also emphasized the importance of celebrating vocations in joyful moments, such as incorporating a focus on the vocation of marriage during wedding anniversaries or the renewal of vows, thereby affirming the call to holiness in everyday life.
Her message was clear: with just a shift in intention and focus, existing parish events can become powerful
opportunities to inspire and support future vocations.
“Within the parish, one main avenue to affect change is the priest sprinkling vocations onto what they already do at a parish. They are already giving homilies, so why not speak about vocations and the need for families to encourage their child to discern God’s will?” Mrs. Gruenewald shared.
“Another avenue is creating the support structure so that vocations become a part of the culture of the parish. Each parish should have a vocation committee or ministry composed of laypeople who will create a culture of vocations at their parish. We make this easier by all the resources we offer at www. vocationministry.com; no one has to start from scratch. This very important work needs attention and intention from all Catholics,” she added.
Father Mark Schuster, director of vocations for the Diocese of Knoxville and pastor of St. John Neumann Parish in Farragut, presented a clear and actionable three-step plan designed to help each parish actively and prayerfully promote vocations. Rooted in both spiritual and practical support, this plan offers a path forward for building a culture where vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and holy marriage are regularly encouraged and nurtured.
The first step of the plan is for every parish in the diocese to establish a dedicated vocation ministry. This team of parishioners, guided by prayer and supported with resources, will work alongside their pastor to promote and sustain vocation awareness throughout the year. To support this important initiative, the national apostolate Vocation Ministry will return to the diocese this fall. On Saturday, Sept. 20, a diocesan-wide workshop will be hosted at All Saints Parish in Knoxville. This event will equip parish representatives with the tools, training, and encouragement they need to launch or strengthen Vocation Ministries in their own parishes.
The second step involves fostering a prayerful parish culture through a monthly holy hour for vocations. Each parish is encouraged to offer a time of eucharistic adoration specifically dedicated to praying for young people to hear and respond to God’s call, whether to the priesthood, religious life, or the vocation of holy matrimony. These Holy Hours not only deepen the parish’s communal prayer life but also create sacred space for discernment and spiritual reflection.
By gathering monthly to lift up vocations in prayer, the parish community becomes an active participant in calling forth future leaders of the Church.
The third and final step in this diocesan effort is the implementation of “Called by Name,” which will take place on Jan. 18. On this special day, priests across the diocese will preach on the beauty and importance of vocations and invite the faithful to take part in identifying individuals in their parish who may
be called to the priesthood or consecrated life.
Parishioners will be asked to prayerfully submit the names of young men and women who show signs of a possible vocation, individuals who, with encouragement and support, might one day serve the Church in a profound way. These names will then be shared with the diocesan Vocation Office for followup and invitation to further discernment opportunities.
Together, these three steps: establishing a parish vocation ministry, committing to monthly holy hours for vocations, and participating in “Called by Name,” form a unified, diocesan-wide approach to fostering a culture of vocations. With God’s grace and the collaboration of clergy and laity, the Diocese of Knoxville hopes to raise up a new generation of faithful priests, religious, and holy spouses who will serve the Church with joy and dedication. This diocesan-wide effort is not solely the responsibility of clergy or vocation directors, it requires the wholehearted participation of the entire Catholic community. Bishop Beckman affirmed this shared mission and urged the laity to take an active role in fostering a culture of vocations, stating, “Encouraging young people to respond freely and generously to God’s call in their life, whether to priesthood, religious life, or marriage, is really everyone’s job! We need the whole people of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, to enable a great flourishing of Christian vocations in our time.”
Seminarians’ perspective
During the convocation, an impromptu request was made to hear firsthand what seminary life currently looks like. In response, three of the diocese’s seminarians were invited to share about the newly implemented stages of priestly formation now being used in seminaries across the United States.
Eli Holt spoke about the Propaedeutic Stage, a foundational year focused on prayer, personal development, and deepening one’s relationship with Christ. This stage precedes formal academic study and is designed to help men build a strong spiritual and human foundation for the journey ahead. Mr. Holt, who is currently studying at Conception Seminary, is now in the Discipleship Stage, which introduces academic study, primarily in philosophy, while also continuing to shape the seminarian into a committed disciple of Jesus through intentional growth in prayer, virtue, and community life Daniel Cooper, who is currently in the Configuration Stage at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, explained that this stage typically lasts at least three years. During this term, the seminarian continues academic formation in theology and engages in hands-on pastoral experiences, such as serving in parishes, caring for the poor, and learning to preach and administer the sacraments. The focus of this stage is on configuring the semi-
COURTESY OF THE BASILICA OF STS. PETER AND PAUL
Celebrating the priesthood Above: Father Renzo Alvarado Suarez celebrates one of his first Masses after his ordination to the priesthood on June 7 at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Assisting Father Alvarado is Deacon Fredy Vargas. The traditional first Mass of Thanksgiving was at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga.
narian’s life more closely to that of Christ the priest.
Finally, Father A.J. Houston, who at the time was just days away from his June 7 ordination to the priesthood, described the Vocational Synthesis Stage. This final period, lasting at least six months prior to ordination, involves living and serving in a parish full-time. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection and pastoral preparation, intended to confirm the seminarian’s readiness to embrace the priesthood joyfully and faithfully.
These four stages of priestly formation, developed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Clergy and officially promulgated in June 2022, represent a significant shift in seminary formation in the United States. Because these changes are still relatively recent, many priests are just now becoming familiar with the new structure.
Hearing directly from the seminarians who are currently living out these stages provided a valuable and concrete insight into what the new model looks like in practice. Their testimonies offered not only information but also inspiration, as they shared how each stage is shaping their spiritual, pastoral, and human formation.
Pastoral response
Feedback from the priests in attendance reflected a strong appreciation for the workshop and its content. Many highlighted specific aspects they found particularly beneficial. Several priests noted that
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
Participating in the sacraments Father Michael Willey, associate pastor at All Saints Parish in Knoxville, celebrates the sacrament of confirmation during Mass on July 13. Father Willey was ordained in June 2024. Assisting Father Willey is Deacon Bob Hunt and seminarian Daniel Cooper.
gaining awareness of the current statistics and trends in vocations, both nationally and within the diocese, helped underscore the urgency and importance of intentional vocation promotion.
Others appreciated the focus on practical, actionable steps that could be implemented at the parish level to foster a culture of vocations. A number of priests also expressed how valuable it was to hear directly from the seminarians, who shared personal reflections on their formation journey within the newly implemented Program of Priestly Formation, Sixth Edition. Their firsthand experiences brought the new stages to life and offered insights into how it is shaping the next generation of priests.
“I think the two things [to pro-
mote/grow vocations] are one, the families, that families be places of prayer, because prayer is the soil for good vocations. God is calling, but it’s a matter of hearing God’s call and responding with generosity and freedom, and prayer helps us to do that. And likewise, vibrant parish communities that are flourishing in prayer. People are able to be seen who might be potential candidates for various kinds of vocations in the Church, and they can be encouraged in parish settings,” Bishop Beckman said.
In the days and months ahead, parishioners across the Diocese of Knoxville will begin to notice a renewed and consistent emphasis on vocations. This will be reflected not only in homilies but also in the prayers of the faithful, parish events, youth gatherings, and moments of
catechesis, all designed to invite the faithful to reflect on their call and to support others in discerning theirs. Priests will be intentionally weaving the message of vocation into the fabric of parish life, encouraging openness to God’s call, and cultivating a culture where vocations are nurtured and celebrated.
An example of this renewed focus was evident in Father Michael Willey’s recent homily on the Gospel of the “Mission of the Seventy-Two.” Reflecting on Jesus’ call to send laborers into the harvest, Father Willey, who serves as associate pastor at All Saints Parish, reminded his congregation that the call to priesthood and religious life is still being made today, and it may be heard within their very own parish community. He preached, “He surely is calling laborers into the harvest, and I fully believe that there are those present here who are so called. But how is that call heard? How is the voice of God heard if we don’t make time for prayer, if we don’t make time to be still and silent? Pray that you know not our wills, but rather the will of the Father be done in the lives of our sons, of our brothers.”
His words served as a powerful reminder that discernment is rooted in prayer and silence—and that the support of the community is essential in helping young people recognize and respond to God’s invitation. As priests like Father Willey continue to encourage and inspire their communities, the groundwork is being laid for more vocations to take root in the heart of the diocese. ■
BILL BREWER
assisting the pastor with sacraments, visiting the sick or lonely, and collaborating with various parish ministries
“I’ve also had the opportunity to spend time with young people, visit the parish school, help organize liturgical activities, and promote devotions to the Virgin Mary and various saints. Moreover, I’ve been present to speak with, listen to, and accompany those who come to the parish seeking faith or comfort amid this vibrant city,” Mr. da Silva remarked.
He commented that being in the midst of Canada’s most populous city has allowed him “to experience firsthand what pastoral ministry means in an urban context.”
“The parish is situated among tall buildings and serves a diverse community of people from various cultures, ages, and spiritual backgrounds. This human richness requires constant attention, active listening, and an open willingness to serve wherever needed,” he said.
Mr. da Silva said that what has moved him the most is seeing “how people fight to keep their faith alive.”
“There is a special strength in those who, despite their wounds, exhaustion, and doubts, still come to church with humility,” he continued. “People who live through very difficult situations but who continue to believe, pray, and hope. I am deeply touched to see how the Gospel comes alive in them. Sharing faith with them is not only about giving—it’s also about receiving. Their questions, their testimonies, their tears … all of it teaches me more than many books ever could. It has reminded me that being a priest is not about always having all the answers but about walking with the people, even through many forms of uncertainty.”
Mr. da Silva’s summer assignment also has included challenges.
“One of the most significant difficulties has been facing questions that don’t always have a clear or immediate answer, especially with people who are facing long-term illnesses in the hospital,” he said. “People ask why they suffer, why their children have drifted away from the faith, and why God seems absent at times. In those moments, the only thing I can offer is pres-
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Vocations: Strengthening the Call
ence, prayerful silence, and a sincere desire to accompany them. To me, it’s a school of humility. I’ve learned that it’s not necessary to ‘solve’ everything, but rather to be a sign of hope, consolation, and active faith. That is when one discovers the importance of personal prayer because without being united to Christ we cannot give anything significant to others.”
Overall, Mr. da Silva feels that this summer “has truly been a gift.”
“It has drawn me closer to the concrete life of a parish, deepened my devotion to the Virgin Mary, and helped me grow as a Christian who, despite the difficulties of our time, wants to live his faith in Jesus Christ. These past months have encouraged me in my vocational discernment and reminded me that behind every face is a story that deserves to be welcomed with love,” he shared.
Eli Holt has been in seminary formation for two years and currently attends Conception Seminary College in Missouri. His summer assignment is at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga.
“I am going into my senior year of philosophy. Philosophy is typically a four-year degree, but I did two years of college to get my associate's degree before I entered the seminary. Some of those credits were able to transfer for my philosophy degree, so I will be in minor seminary for a total of three years,” he explained.
During his summer assignment,
to the number of priests present. It is found that the worldwide distribution of deacons per one hundred priests is 13 in 2023, ranging from a minimum of just 0.5 in Asia to a maximum of 29 in the Americas. In Europe, the ratio is around 10, while in Africa, only one permanent deacon serves alongside every 100 priests.
The magnitude of this index, although appreciable, is still quite modest for permanent deacons to have a significant impact on balancing the demand and supply of service to Catholics in the territory. However, in evolutionary terms, it is noted that permanent deacons tend to have a greater presence in those areas where candidates for the priesthood are lower in number.
Slower rate of decline in the number of consecrated religious
The reduction of both professed religious Brothers who are not priests and professed religious Sisters, which has occurred over time, continued in 2023, albeit at a less intense pace.
In particular, it should be noted that regarding professed religious Brothers who are not priests, while an increase was recorded in Africa between 2022 and 2023, all other continents experienced a decline. It is worth emphasizing that the decline in South America has slowed compared with the average annual decrease of the previous period and that a state of stability is observed even in Central America. The relative weight of professed religious Brothers who are not priests in the various areas, when considered over time, confirms the decline in Europe, which continued to decrease in 2023.
The decline in the number of professed religious Sisters also continued in 2023. At the global level, their number decreased from 599,228 in 2022 to 589,423 in 2023, with a relative variation of minus-1.6 percent. Regarding their geographical distribution in 2023, nearly 32 percent reside in Europe, followed by Asia with 30 percent, the Americas with 23 percent (evenly distributed across the two hemispheres), Africa with 14 percent, and Oceania with 1 percent.
Mr. Holt is assigned to live at the rectory, and his responsibilities include assisting the priests at liturgies, going on hospital visits, helping with retreats and altar-server trainings, working in the parish office, and visiting with parishioners.
“The most challenging part of this summer assignment is that there hasn’t been much of a chance to really get to know the parishioners,” Mr. Holt remarked. “The youth and young-adult programs are closed down for the summer, and I really thrive in those environments. There is also limited parking at the basilica, so people can’t stay too long after Sunday Mass because they need to make room for people coming to the next Mass. I appreciate it when I have the chance to have good conversations with people. I love visiting parishioners’ homes, and that gives me the chance to spend time with them and get to know them better.”
He commented that this summer has helped him prepare for the priesthood “in many small ways.”
“One specific way it has challenged me to grow is keeping discipline in prayer outside of the seminary,” he said. “While in the seminary, we are kept accountable in making sure that we are attending communal prayer. While that is still the case here at the basilica to some extent, there is more flexibility. So, it can be easier to let it slip. This helps me to take more responsibility over my prayer life.”
The decline in the number of professed religious Sisters worldwide is largely attributable to a considerable increase in deaths, resulting from a high proportion of elderly religious Sisters, while the number of those abandoning religious life has become less significant over the biennium.
Africa recorded a significant increase of 2.2 percent between 2022 and 2023, followed by Southeast Asia with plus-0.1 percent. North America, on the other hand, saw a decline of minus-3.6 percent. South America followed closely, with minus-3 percent, while the decline recorded in the Central Continental region of the Americas and the Central Antilles was more moderate. Europe holds the negative record, with a variation of minus-3.8 percent. These movements naturally influence changes in the continental proportions of the total number of professed religious Sisters. A reduction in the presence of religious Sisters in Europe and North America is observed in the 2022-23 period, to the benefit of Asia and Africa. Specifically, while in 2022 the total number of professed religious Sisters in Europe and the Americas accounted for 55.8 percent of the world total, in 2023 this percentage dropped to 54.8 percent. The most significant changes in the period were observed in Southeast Asia (from 28.7 percent to 29.2 percent) and in Africa (from 13.9 percent to 14.5 percent).
Professed religious Sisters remain a substantial reality, despite the globally observed decline and that in some continental regions. The total number of religious Sisters is 45 percent higher than the priestly population. Even though their statistical role in service provision has generally declined over the years, their contribution to the life of the Christian community remains essential, sometimes even substituting for that of priests.
Continued reduction in numbers of seminarians
The temporal trend observed worldwide in the number of major seminarians indicates an uninterrupted decline that has been recorded
Gerald Stults has been in seminary formation for two years and also attends Conception Seminary College. His summer assignment is at St. Mary Church in Oak Ridge. His responsibilities include altar serving at daily Mass, shadowing the priests as they anoint the sick and bless homes, participating in parish activities, being present to the community, and assisting the parish staff with various tasks.
“Fundamentally, my overall responsibility over this summer is to get a much better sense of what the priesthood looks like, and living at a parish while seeing how a priest handles different pastoral situations like offering a funeral, consoling a person in grief, baptizing a child, etc., grants me an opportunity to better reflect on how I would want to conduct my priestly ministry in the future,” Mr. Stults shared.
The most enjoyable aspect of his summer assignment has been visiting parishioners.
“Throughout my life, community has been one of the most crucial elements for the well-being of my faith, and visiting parishioners allows me to grow closer to the local community, as well as to the greater community of the Church, Christ s body. To put it simply, it’s an amazing privilege to get to know so many great people and to know that you are loved and cared about by those people,” Mr. Stults said.
He reflected that this summer has helped him develop by offering many opportunities “to grow in pastoral charity, overall responsibility, and trust in God’s providence.”
“I’ve learned how to be more of a pastoral person by witnessing how the priests at my assignment handle people’s emotions; moreover, I’ve gotten opportunities to visit the sick and have a conversation with those who are angry with the Church,” Mr. Stults shared. “During my assignment, I’m given a lot of free rein over what I would like to do with my schedule. Therefore, it is largely up to me to use that time responsibly via volunteering to help with parish events, the food pantry, etc. I also grow in trust of God’s providence because, sometimes, my day can become very busy and chaotic, and the only way to get a grip on things is by retreating to God in prayer.” ■
since 2012.
In terms of total numbers, candidates for the priesthood decreased globally from 108,481 in 2022 to 106,495 in 2023, with a variation of minus-1.8 percent. The decline observed in the global total affects all continents except Africa, where seminarians increased by 1.1 percent (from 34,541 to 34,924). In Europe, Asia, and the Americas, but especially in the first continent, the decreases are significant (minus-4.9 percent in Europe, minus-4.2 percent in Asia, and minus-1.3 percent in the Americas). In Oceania, the trend is negative but of minor magnitude.
The percentage distribution of major seminarians by continent shows modest changes over the biennium. Africa and Asia contributed 61 percent of the world total in 2022, a percentage that rose to 61.4 percent in 2023. Apart from a slight negative adjustment in Oceania, the Americas and Europe together saw their share decrease. In 2022, American and European seminarians totaled 41,199, representing almost 38 percent of the world total, while one year later, they dropped to 37.7 percent.
To highlight the positive and negative surpluses of vocations at the territorial level, it is useful to compare the percentage distribution of seminarians with the corresponding distribution of Catholics. It follows that in 2023, significant disparities were recorded.
The percentages of seminarians exceed those of Catholics in Africa (32.8 percent of seminarians compared with 20 percent of Catholics) and in Asia (28.6 percent of seminarians and 11 percent of Catholics). These continents thus tend to fully meet the need to autonomously sustain their local apostolate.
In Europe and America, however, the percentages of seminarians are lower than those of Catholics (12 percent of seminarians and 20.4 percent of Catholics in Europe and 25.7 percent of seminarians and 47.8 percent of Catholics in the Americas). In these two continents, therefore, it is more difficult to adequately respond to the needs of the Catholic population, particularly in terms of generational turnover in the priesthood. ■
Daniel Cooper
Eli Holt
COURTESY OF ALL SAINTS PARISH
COURTESY OF THE BASILICA OF STS. PETER AND PAUL
the Diocese of Joliet, Ill., proclaimed the first reading, and Julie Radachy, a consecrated virgin from the Diocese of Knoxville, proclaimed the second reading.
In his homily, Bishop Beckman reflected on how the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a reminder of God’s infinite love.
“It is so good to be with you today on this feast day of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus here in our cathedral church,” he said. “As we think for a moment about the words of Paul the Apostle today, he says the love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit as a gift to us. We know the origin of that love that is poured out for us is Jesus, both human and divine heart, full of love for us. The unconditional, infinite love of God in the human and divine love of Jesus poured out for each one of us unconditionally, no holds barred on God’s part.”
The bishop reflected Pope Francis’ last encyclical, Dilexit nos (“He loved us”) focused on the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
“A few weeks ago, someone gave me the book of Pope Francis, ‘On Hope,’” Bishop Beckman said. “Early in the book he talks about a virtue that has been forgotten in our world today: the virtue of tenderness. Pope Francis says it is so important in the healing of our world today, the tenderness of a shepherd who is willing to go and search that one lost sheep and do whatever it takes to bring that sheep home. And when he finds it, he places it—I would say ever so tenderly—gently on his shoulders to bring that sheep home. We know the tender love of that shepherd because we’re here today.”
The bishop then addressed the consecrated virgins directly.
“To you consecrated virgins, in a very special way you have consecrated yourselves to Jesus, your Bridegroom. His love for you and your love for Him is but a miracle. Thank God for His love for you,” he remarked.
At the end of the Mass, Bishop Boyea encouraged everyone to share the love of God they have received, in whatever vocation God has called them to live.
“It’s good to be here. Thank you so much for your hospitality,” he said. “The one thing I want to say about our consecrated virgins is that the love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. That happened at our baptism and our confirmation. What are we going to do with that love? Most of you will spend that love with a spouse, thanks be to God. We bishops and priests, we’ll spend that love with the Church. These ladies have decided to dedicate their love back to Jesus Christ as their spouse. We all have to spend the love that has been poured into our hearts. Don’t keep it to yourself. God bless you all.”
Following Mass, the women headed to Gatlinburg for their convocation.
When the USACV was looking for a location for its 2025 convocation, Miss Radachy suggested the Diocese of Knoxville. The Smoky Mountains made for a beautiful, inspiring backdrop as women from all over the country gathered in Gatlinburg for both reflection and friendship.
“We held it in such a beautiful place. Most of us love nature, want to be out in nature and look at God’s beautiful creation. So, it was just a nice convocation, time for us to be together,” Valerie Wilson, a consecrated virgin from the Archdiocese of Louisville, said.
Miss Wilson said her favorite part of convocation was spending time with her “fellow sisters,” women whose daily lives may look different but are united by a shared calling. The retreat-style convocation included daily Mass, confession, adoration, and personal prayer.
Bishop Boyea and chaplain Father David Whiteside led a series of talks that focused on each of the mansions in St. Teresa of Avila's The Interior Castle
One
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
Gifts of faith Above: Bishop Mark Beckman receives the gifts from Magalis Aguilera and Maria Luisa Meza, members of the United States Association of Consecrated Virgins, during Mass at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 27. Below: Bishop Beckman and Bishop Earl Boyea of the Diocese of Lansing, Mich., distribute Communion during the Mass. Bishop Boyea is the episcopal moderator for the USACV.
chant workshops on the Liturgy of the Hours. Consecrated virgins pray, at minimum, morning and evening prayer every day.
Of course, the convocation also gave the women time with their Holy Spouse.
“It was very eucharistic-focused as well,” Miss Radachy said. “We had holy hours, daily Mass, opportunities for confession, and then free time just to spend some time in the Smokies and spend time in God’s creation and just kind of reflect on everything that we had been learning as we were going along.”
The final night together included a talent show. The opportunity to get together and bond with others in the vocation is an opportunity many treasure. Several women stayed on for a few more days to explore the area.
“Overall, it was just such a beautiful experience,” Miss Radachy said. “This was my first one, so I didn’t really know what to expect. I know that there would be some graces that would come out of it, but the graces were really just more than I ever expected. It’s just kind of one example of the generosity of God because He was able to bring all of us together and be able to bring all of the joy of our vocation and be able to have that as a community.”
Since most dioceses have only one or two consecrated virgins, it can be difficult to build a community. While most engage in their parish
and diocesan communities, it is also rewarding to have connections with other consecrated virgins, women who understand the particular ups and downs of the vocation, which is one of the reasons they hold the annual convocation.
“The annual convocations are a beautiful opportunity to form friendships with consecrated virgins who live far away,” Madeleine Troppe, a consecrated virgin from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, said. “In fact, at the first convocation I attended, I met another consecrated virgin who has become one of my dearest friends. She lives in Arizona, and I live in Pennsylvania, so we don t see each other often, but we keep in touch frequently. My life has been so enriched by knowing her and so many other lovely consecrated virgins I ve met.”
The women also connect online throughout the year.
Miss Radachy said a group of consecrated virgins will pray vespers together online for certain feast days, especially virgin saint feast days and Marian feast days.
Miss Radachy was consecrated as a bride of Christ in 2022 at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. She currently works as the director of religious education for St. John Neumann Parish in Farragut.
Miss Radachy said she knew from a young age that she was called to be a bride of Christ, but it took her some time to discern what that might look like. She contemplated
joining a religious order, but she found that God was calling her to consecrated virginity.
“It really is such a beautiful vocation,” she said. “One of the things that is unique about consecrated virginity is that to kind of borrow from St. Teresa a little bit is the fact that we are all such different flowers in the same field. We’re able to use our gifts and talents in a way that is going to bring people to God. It’s just something that is very individual; it looks different for each individual. It’s really being able to live the fullness of you for God.”
Miss Wilson agreed that the vocation is lived out in a wide range of ways, different for every consecrated virgin.
“There’s just this enormous diversity. We’re all so unique, but we’re still called into the same vocation to be the bride of Christ. How it plays out is different according to each individual. It just depends on what God is directing you to do. I asked God, ‘What do you want me to do?’ and you know, He told me I was being called to prayer. I spend a lot of time in intercessory prayer for the world, the diocese, the needs of different people.”
Miss Wilson has been a consecrated virgin for nine years. She said she started exploring the vocation after two separate spiritual directors suggested it to her.
“I noticed the one thing that really ever made me happy was when I was serving the Lord,” she said. She noted that the vocation comes with its hardships as well.
“If you’re a bride of Christ you’re going to be carrying a cross, right?” she said. “The brideship of Christ is carrying a cross a lot of times. It’s a lot of different crosses; sometimes they’re small crosses; sometimes they’re large crosses. If you’re a spouse to Christ, you can expect those crosses to come, sometimes from very unusual places and unexpected places. And whenever they come, you just have to remember what Jesus suffered through in His human life.”
But in suffering with Christ, there also comes joy in Christ.
“When I was discerning, an elderly consecrated virgin gleefully told me, ‘If you're going to live a life with Jesus, you'd better buckle up because it's going to be a wild ride,’” Miss Troppe said. “It was so charming and so true. I often think of one of my favorite Pope Francis quotes: ‘If we wish to follow Christ closely, we cannot choose an easy, quiet life. It will be a demanding life, but full of joy.’”
Miss Troppe was consecrated a bride of Christ in 2023. She said she was first introduced to the vocation through roommates who were discerning religious life or other forms of consecrated life. She attended a consecration ceremony with one of these roommates.
“Watching the consecration ceremony unfold, something stirred in my heart, and I found myself wanting to do what these women were doing someday. It didn't make much sense to me because I knew so little about the vocation and hadn't had Jesus on my radar as a potential husband,” she said.
For her, living out the vocation includes prayer and teaching.
“I work at a Catholic grade school teaching math and science enrichment and support. Working with children is a beautiful opportunity to be a witness, to share with them the joy of being completely given to Christ,” she said.
“Also, since I don't have my own children, I'm available to love my students in a different way than my married colleagues can. There is a sense in which I see them all as my own children, insofar as that they have been entrusted to my care and that I have a responsibility to help foster their spiritual and human development,” Miss Troppe noted. “It's a very joyful life.”
For those discerning a consecrated vocation, go to the USACV website, www.consecratedvirgins.org. USACV also hosts annual information conferences for those discerning. ■
of the USACV leaders who is also a musician led the group in
EMILY BOOKER (2)
The beauty of Christ Members of the United States Association of Consecrated Virgins gather in Gatlinburg during their 2025 national convocation. The women joined for fellowship, prayer, and learning sessions during the convocation, which was held June 27-30.
COURTESY OF JULIE RADACHY
five decades later. “But it’s been a joy.”
He noted that often in life the image of what something appears to be differs from the reality of what it actually is.
He joined Glenmary at age 18 when he was just out of high school. He enrolled in the order’s college program at Maryknoll College in Glen Ellyn, Ill. After completing two years at Maryknoll, Glenmary sent him to Loyola of the South University in New Orleans, where he graduated and began his novitiate year in Cincinnati.
He then was assigned to St. Louis University, where he received a master’s degree in divinity.
“That’s where we educated our men,” he said.
Father Charters believes his most recent assignment in East Tennessee’s Unicoi County is the culmination of all his assignments.
The faith communities he has previously served have been in Kentucky, Texas, Arkansas, Georgia, Virginia, and West Virginia.
“It’s like Unicoi County here is the comprehensive exam because everything that I dreamed of as a missionary has come at this present assignment. I didn’t even have paper clips when I came here. I had to start with everything,” Father Charters said. “And that is my dream. You are going to go to the Appalachian Mountains. Here is the Appalachian Mountains. It was to serve people in a rural area. It has expanded as the Church has expanded in the United States, with the Hispanic community.”
And just as St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Erwin has been a comprehensive exam for Father Charters, his priesthood has been an overarching education.
“These 50 years have been constantly learning new things every year. New ways of adapting. That’s the key thing I find as a missionary priest is you have to adapt. And I have had to adapt a lot. Fifty years has been a lot of adaptation. It’s been beautiful adaptation. And it’s been challenging at times,” he observed.
He noted that it isn’t just languages that he has had to adapt to. Cultures have been another significant adaptation for him.
“The cultural thing is different. Appalachian culture is different than growing up in Dayton, Ohio. And Texas culture when I served there, and Arkansas culture. Is there any difference in adapting to cultures, meeting new people, new situations, things I never dreamed of?” he shared.
“I never dreamed I would be working with undoing racism for four and a half years in Kentucky. I never knew I would be dealing with a miners’ strike in Virginia, or starting a parish that is basically almost 90 percent Hispanic, Spanish-speaking, here in Erwin. You just have to say, ‘Lord, you put me here. It is
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70s, knew it was the right time to step away from her full-time job. “I need to slow down, have a more contemplative mission,” she said. “In other words, more time to pray and lead others to prayer.”
And even though she has been discerning what her future will hold, one thing is clear: she’ll remain active in her ministry.
“One day, we were taking young college students to Johnson City to eat, and one of them said to me, ‘Miss Kathy, you can’t retire; Mother Teresa never retired,’” Ms. O’Brien said. “And you’re right, how does a missionary retire?”
Ms. O’Brien will remain active with community organizations such as Keeping the Valley Beautiful, which seeks to care for the environment and increase ecological awareness. In recent months, the group cleaned up a stretch of river and collected 16 bags of trash and large items. Ms. O’Brien helped, handing out trash sticks, bags, and drinks to the volunteers.
The organization has adopted two
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
in Your hands. I’m only a conduit which you are working through. I will do the best I can, but it is in Your hands,’” Father Charters said.
The Glenmary priest first arrived in Unicoi County on Sept. 1, 2011. He had no building to use for Mass or offices, and he had no supplies.
“I put an ad in the newspaper saying we are starting a Catholic church. Anyone interested meet at the senior center. We had 43 people show up. One said he was Baptist and was just there to support us. Six years later, I presided at his funeral. He remained Baptist, but he wanted me to do his funeral,” Father Charters recalled.
That encounter speaks volumes about Father Charters’ evangelization in the Unicoi County area of upper East Tennessee. While his focus has been on establishing a Catholic church in the county, he also has established strong ties in the larger, non-Catholic community.
As the Glenmary mission church in Unicoi County began to take root, Masses were held in temporary quarters, including the Elks Club and the National Guard Armory. An Erwin house would then become home, where Church offices were located on the upper floor and Masses were celebrated in the basement. For well-attended Masses like Easter, the garage doors were opened, and seating spilled out onto the driveway.
The roots of St. Michael the Archangel Parish he has cultivated now run deep and are strong. So strong, in fact, that St. Michael was designated a central community relief center following the Hurricane Helene flooding last September.
And Father Charters is welcome at the Unicoi County ministerial association made up of different faith communities in the county.
During his tenure in Erwin, Father Charters has been blessed by the assistance of a Glenmary lay missionary, Kathy O’Brien, who has served as director of religious education and has assisted Father Charters with the Hispanic community.
Ms. O’Brien also has been involved in the greater Unicoi community.
Father Charters believes the parish is firmly anchored not only in the Diocese of Knoxville but in upper East Tennessee, too.
He credits his family for the deep roots in his faith. It’s a love that reaches from the Holy Spirit through the familial village that raised him.
“The best way would be to say that the seed of the Father’s Word, that is His love, which was sown within me at baptism, found very fertile soil in which to grow. That seed was nurtured and encouraged to develop within a loving atmosphere. The love I received from and shared with my dad, mom, Aunt Louise, my two brothers, and all my relatives was the love which enabled me to freely respond ‘Yes’ to the Father as He called to me,”
Father Charters told the Glenmary Home Missioners when they asked how he could best describe his life.
He cites the influence of his immediate and extended family in his formation, and he refers to them as an integral part of his life.
“Through their sharing love and concern for me and for each other, I have learned to become sensitive to the Father’s calling. As I look back over the 18 years that preceded my joining Glenmary, I am keenly aware of the Father’s love speaking through my family and relatives,” he shared with his religious order only a few weeks before his May 1975 ordination.
“For me, the Father’s love was an invitation to the priesthood. His love spoke of priesthood with the force of a gentle wind,” he added.
Father Charters’ reflection just prior to his ordination can serve as a guidepost for others considering a vocation to religious life.
“As I look toward the future, it is my desire to continue to respond to the Father’s love as revealed in His Son, Jesus, and to be open to various ways in which the Spirit leads me to proclaim that love. What drew me to Glenmary and the priesthood was the Father’s love, and now it is that same love that calls me forth to go out to others and share with them as to how the Father’s love is deep within them.
miles of road that they clean four times a year. They also participate in a booth during community fairs to raise awareness about the care of natural resources.
Ms. O’Brien has served as president of Keeping the Valley Beautiful but
The Gospel message is a proclamation of the Father’s love for each of us, and it is this message I desire to share with others,” he said.
As he now reflects on his five decades as a priest, Father Charters is in a veteran position to offer wisdom and counsel to anyone considering a religious vocation.
“I would say be open to the Holy Spirit. Be open to adapting to new things that you have never dreamed of in your life. And to be open also to challenges that you think you can’t do. Well, you can if you let the Holy Spirit lead you,” Father Charters advised.
He said he can reel off story after story about challenges he didn’t believe he could handle but he did.
“You let the Spirit lead you. It’s in God’s hands. I would also say always be open to serving the people. The people always come first. Always in my ministry the people come first,” he said. “Come to serve, not to be served. I can’t emphasize that enough.”
He also had a stern warning to those looking to serve in a missionary area who are concerned about numbers—how many members, how many youth, how many demographic groups, etc.
“If you think, well, ‘I’m looking for numbers like where I came from,’ then don’t come. Don’t look for numbers. Don’t even look for success. Just be present,” he also advised.
He followed that up by encouraging future priests and women religious not only to be present but also to “sit with people.”
“That is so important: to be with them, to sit with them, and to listen to them,” he said.
He noted that it can take a few years for a pastor, a priest, or a Sister to be accepted in a community. But that “ministry of presence” often bears fruit.
“Last September is an example of that. That was when the flood hit. We jumped in and did a lot of relief work. We continue to help out, but it’s a lot less now fortunately,” he said.
The disaster also serves as heartache for Father Charters and the St. Michael the Archangel community. Several members of the parish died in the historic storm.
He shared that years before the devastating 2024 flood, he was in Walmart and a woman he did not know approached him and said, “It’s a blessing that the Catholic church is here. Thank you.”
“She wasn’t Catholic. But her response was, ‘Thank you for being here.’ So apparently, we were making an impact on the area unbeknownst to us in a good sense,” he said.
Those subtle successes are uplifting for his vocation and his ministry.
“There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. I wouldn’t change anything. There just have been so many
mas gift-giving in Erwin.
Although there are many volunteers and lay co-workers active in the Glenmary family, the institute called Glenmary Lay Missioners is disappearing. After its founding in 1957, this small group of women served alongside Glenmary priests and Brothers in different capacities. But it never went beyond a handful of passionate members.
It has been a colorful career.
Ms. O’Brien served Glenmary’s missions in Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. She is happy to see that the mission she worked on for the past decade is growing, and she is excited for St. Michael the Archangel’s future.
retired from that position. However, she plans to continue volunteering. And she will also continue to volunteer with the Kiwanis Club of Unicoi County, which organizes charitable programs for children, such as sponsorship for baseball teams and Christ-
She will continue to live in the area and collaborate but now at a more relaxed pace. She also is looking forward to spending more time with family in Wisconsin.
“I feel rewarded,” Ms. O’Brien said. “I still have close relationships, thanks to the Internet, with people I have known and in groups of young people who are now grandparents.” ■
Fifty years a missionary Kathy O'Brien, a member of the Glenmary Lay Missionaries for five decades, has been with the religious order since she was in her 20s. She has served in six states, including Tennessee.
Priesthood continued on page A19
BILL BREWER
A community of faithful St. Michael the Archangel is a growing Catholic parish in Unicoi County. The Glenmary Home Missioners started the Erwin church in 2011 and have been ministering to the community since then.
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
Smaller dioceses lead U.S. in priesthood vocations Vocation Ministry study shows trend among Tier 3 Catholic regions
By Jonah McKeown Catholic News Agency
The small Midwestern Diocese of Wichita, Kan., continues to lead the nation in many metrics related to priestly vocations, according to a report from Vocation Ministry, a Texas nonprofit that supports vocations programs in parishes and schools.
The report, which serves as an update to a major 2023 study conducted by the same ministry, concludes that smaller, more connected dioceses like the Diocese of Knoxville seem to have an edge when it comes to fostering local vocations.
“The challenges of priestly ministry—whether serving small, tight-knit communities or large, diverse parishes—highlight the importance of intentional engagement, pastoral adaptability, and resource allocation,” the report reads.
“The richness of immigrant communities, the dedication of religious and extern priests, and the creative energy of priests committed to youth ministry all serve as reminders that the Church possesses the tools to meet these challenges,” it says. “However, addressing the realities of declining vocations and overburdened clergy will require innovative approaches and a renewed commitment to building environments where all vocations can flourish.”
The report classifies dioceses by population into four tiers. Tier 1 dioceses have more than 750,000 Catholics; Tier 2 dioceses have 350,000 to 750,000 Catholics; Tier 3 dioceses have 100,000 to 350,000 Catholics; and Tier 4 dioceses have fewer than 100,000 Catholics.
The Tier 4 dioceses with a small Catholic population had the largest ratio of priests to parishioners—and also the highest rate of men entering the priesthood. In contrast, the dioceses with the largest Catholic populations fared the worst, with the lowest ratio of priests to parishioners and also the lowest vocation rate.
Not a single Tier 1 diocese has enough seminarians to maintain current priest levels, the 2025 report says.
Vocation Ministry listed the “top four” dioceses in each tier for the number of men entering seminary between 2014 and 2023 as well as the number of ordinations each year, ranking the dioceses by the percentage of priests it ordains in a typical year compared with the number needed to maintain its priestly ranks.
In the biggest category, Tier 1, the top dioceses for seminarians were Dallas, which reached 69 percent of the rate needed to maintain current
Priesthood continued from page A18
experiences in my life that have been so grace-filled that I would never have had had I not been a priest,” Father Charters said.
And he would do it all over again, but …
“I would change some things,” he pointed out as he laughed. “I would learn Spanish. They wouldn’t let us learn Spanish in college. They made us learn French. I learned enough French that I could get through grad school. I could read books in French in grad school. But if I had the background in Spanish that I did in French, that would have been wonderful.”
But as he thought about it, he reconsidered his statement and withdrew his regret.
“But you know, if I had learned Spanish, it would have been a different ministry. There would have been two separate communities here at St. Michael the Archangel. I could possibly have decided that we will have a Spanish Mass here and an English Mass over there,” he reasoned.
“Now, I tell them that since I don’t speak Spanish, I need you to help me, and we have to do this together. Otherwise, we would have two separate communities,” he pointed out.
When asked what he might be doing had he not been a priest, Father Charters quickly noted that he would have been a teacher, although an uncle he was fond of told him he would make a very good salesman.
As Father Charters continues to evangelize in a part of the world where there aren’t many Catholics, possessing the qualities of a teacher and a salesman has been an advantage.
Ms. O’Brien, who has been a
priestly numbers, followed by Philadelphia; Newark, N.J.; and Atlanta—though the latter three had percentages only in the 50s.
In Tier 2, two Ohio dioceses—Cincinnati and Columbus—took the top spots, while Denver and Washington, D.C., were not far behind. All were over 85 percent.
In Tier 3, Wichita greatly exceeded every other diocese with a rate of 195 percent, but all of the top four dioceses in this section showed stellar figures: Nashville; Kansas City-St. Joseph, Mo.; and Grand Rapids, Mich., had 111 percent, 106 percent, and 104 percent, respectively.
In the smallest tier of dioceses, all the top dioceses for seminarians were located in the Great Plains: Bismarck and Fargo in North Dakota, along with Lincoln, Neb., and Tulsa, Okla.
Vocation Ministry also laid out the 16 dioceses that ordain priests at the highest rates, relative to the number of priests needed in the diocese—since not all men who enter the seminary are ordained priests.
Wichita again took the top spot overall, ordain-
ing to the priesthood on average 255 percent of the necessary number of men to maintain its own ranks. Joining Wichita among the ranks of dioceses that ordain more men than they need were Paterson, N.J., and Arlington, Va., along with Nashville, Springfield in Illinois, and Grand Rapids, among several others.
Using a metric called the Priestly Availability Index (PAI), which measures how accessible priests are to potential seminary candidates, the report notes that priests who are spread thin, as many are in larger dioceses, are less likely to be able to take the time to make themselves available to invest in young men who may be interested in the priesthood.
“Priests serving smaller communities often have the unique opportunity to build close, personal relationships with parishioners, fostering a deeper sense of trust and connection. However, the challenges of such ministry can be significant,” according to the report.
“With limited or no staff support for administrative or liturgical tasks, these priests must rely heavily on volunteers, adding to their responsibilities. Additionally, many Tier 4 priests travel long distances to administer sacraments across multiple parishes, which can strain their time and energy, making it difficult to sustain those vital personal connections that are so integral to effective pastoral care.”
Discussing the characteristics of dioceses seeing growth in vocations, the report highlights a strong emphasis on parish-level promotion of vocations among dioceses seeing growth.
Parishes find success in inviting seminarians to share their stories, organizing “Come and See” weekends to encourage men to visit the seminary, targeted youth and young adult programs aimed at demystifying vocations, and service opportunities for youth.
The report also says recognizing the family as the “seedbed of vocations” (quoting St. John Paul II) and promoting Catholic marriages and education are key, as strengthening one kind of Catholic vocation tends to help all the others, too.
“Priests play a pivotal role in nurturing vocations within their parishes, but this effort requires the collaboration of families, educators, and the broader Catholic community,” it says.
In a Feb. 6 column, Wichita Bishop Carl Kemme highlighted the diocese’s prominent place in Vocation Ministry’s study and said he thinks the diocese can attribute some of its vocations success
Dioceses continued on page A24
" For me, the Father’s love was an invitation to the priesthood. His love spoke of priesthood with the force of a gentle wind. ... As I look toward the future, it is my desire to continue to respond to the Father’s love as revealed in His Son, Jesus, and to be open to various ways in which the Spirit leads me to proclaim that love."
Glenmary lay missionary for 50 years, never worked with Father Charters prior to St. Michael the Archangel Parish.
She joined the Erwin parish in 2012.
She said with a hint of pride and a dash of amusement that Father Charters didn’t want to work with anyone else but her as he established the Unicoi County church.
Although they had not worked together, they knew each other from leading a Glenmary retreat together in Texas.
She began with Glenmary in the summer of 1971 as a volunteer missionary in Mississippi. She also served in Ohio and Texas and in Pulaski, Tenn.
She has served more in Tennessee than in any other state where Glenmary ministers.
And while she is officially retired as a Glenmary lay missionary, she continues to assist the order in its evangelization efforts.
Ms. O’Brien developed a reputation with the Glenmary Home Missioners as being able to work with a variety of people, even those who are opposites.
“He (Father Charters) has been the easiest to work with of anybody. He is very respectful to a woman doing things and to ideas and doing things,” she said. “He is a real missionary and a real good priest. I think anybody here would say
that.”
Father Tom Charters, GHM
Ms. O’Brien explained that St. Michael the Archangel was the first Glenmary community she has helped start.
“This is the first one I’ve worked with starting from scratch. I’m usually getting them ready to go to the diocese. This one may be ready to do that one day because it has grown fast. At the first Communion Mass, Father Charters will tell you, we had 256 in attendance on Sunday morning. We had 23 kids in the first Communion class,” she said.
Ms. O’Brien noted that she assists Father Charters in another way: she speaks Spanish and leads classes at St. Michael the Archangel in Spanish.
St. Michael the Archangel parishioner Lorena Reynoso has succeeded Ms. O’Brien as the parish’s director of religious education. Other parishioners also are taking on leadership roles in the parish.
“Our people are stepping up and they are feeling comfortable doing it. I told them my job is to start things, get them going, and then turn it over. We’ve been blessed with good people,” Ms. O’Brien said.
In discussing Father Charters’ ministry in Unicoi County and the role of the Glenmary Home Missioners in building and supporting a faith community, Ms. O’Brien pointed out that the major challenge
for St. Michael the Archangel is sustaining and growing the financial footprint.
“The biggest lack we have is money. We are working with the working poor,” she said, noting that St. Michael the Archangel is stronger than many parishes she has worked in.
Ms. O’Brien lamented the toll that COVID-19 took on the parish. In addition to keeping people away during the height of the coronavirus, it suspended many parish youth activities, which had been well-attended.
“There is a miracle happening now. And I am enjoying it. The young adults are coming back. They are getting involved. They are leading the youth. They’re having babies, and they want these things for their kids. So, there is a return of the 20-somethings and the 30-somethings,” she pointed out.
Ms. O’Brien credits Father Charters for leading the Glenmary team that has established something special in upper East Tennessee.
“I’ve never seen a place develop like this in Glenmary. Not like this. Developing totally in the time it has taken and how solidly it has been built. It’s pretty good,” she said. “The numbers. Everything here has just exploded.”
And on Pentecost Sunday, June 8, Ms. O’Brien could see the Holy Spirit’s presence at St. Michael the Archangel.
“On Pentecost, you can see that the Spirit is working in this place,” she said. “It’s been the work of the Spirit truly. The Spirit has worked here. Father Charters has had a group here called Food & Faith. St. Michael is always food and faith. There is always food, and there is always faith. And that’s a plus because it builds community.” ■
DAN MCWILLIAMS
The path to priesthood Seminarians and men discerning a vocation in the Diocese of Knoxville lead a Mass procession at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
served as pastor of St. John Neumann for more than eight years before retiring from active ministry in July 2018; and Father Chris Michelson, who was pastor of All Saints for several years and has served as an adviser to Knoxville Catholic High School.
Mr. Sompayrac said he and his family have been fortunate to have priests frequently interacting with his family—formally and informally.
“We’ve been super blessed. They never tried to force us into a vocation. Being around them was always something that was normal and acceptable,” he said. “We never felt like we had to go to church or we had to go to Catholic school. We just did go to church. We just did go to Catholic school. It was seen as good, and we were free to do it. And that was part of being able to freely discern. I didn’t feel any pressure.”
He first informed his parents and his older brothers in December 2023 about his interest in joining the priesthood. And as seminary draws closer, he feels very excited and secure in his decision.
Mr. Sompayrac, who received his admission letter from St. Meinrad on July 9, said he was at first mildly discouraged that it will require seven years in seminary before he is ordained a priest. But reminders of his time in Madrid and the priests and seminarians he met there who have spent time at the Vatican help him bridge the time.
“I’m so excited. And I do look forward to living as a priest. That is something that is so attractive and so exciting. I know I’m still discerning God’s call for my life every day. But I feel like I’ve never known anything else my whole life like I know this.”
‘I will answer this call and not go away sad like the rich young man’
Tim Truster, who is from Hamilton, Ohio, in the Cincinnati area, also has been taking part in the Men’s Discernment Group and found it beneficial as he listened to God’s call.
Dr. Truster is living the example of “anyone who belongs to Christ is a new person. The past is forgotten, and everything is new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
To some in the secular world, Dr. Truster’s leap of faith in answering yes to God’s call is illogical. He was informed on June 20 that he has been accepted into the seminary and is leaving behind his job as an engineering professor at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville to become a disciple of Jesus and successor to the Apostles.
But Dr. Truster will tell you he doesn’t see it that way. He is merely accepting God’s plan for his life. Anything he is leaving behind in no way compares to accepting the invitation to follow Jesus Christ.
The 39-year-old civil engineer joined UTK in August 2013 after completing graduate school at the University of Illinois and has enjoyed success guiding students to their industry vocation. He was given tenure, an important milestone in college teaching, in 2019, and he was served notice in April that he was being promoted to full professor.
Dr. Truster, the son of James and Patricia Truster, was baptized into the Catholic faith as an infant and received the sacraments as a child. He attended Catholic school as a youth and was active in Mass, first as an altar server and then as a reader, usher, and eucharistic minister as a young adult. He also has been involved in the Knights of Columbus.
“Throughout my life I’ve always typically been involved in liturgical ministry. I think I have done most everything except be a sacristan,” he said. “It’s been later in life, especially since my time in Knoxville, that I have become an intentional disciple, someone seeking a relationship with Jesus. This has happened over time.”
And while giving up a successful secular career to seek the priesthood is rather unique, Dr. Truster, who is an only child, said he has always been one who is “driven by my passions and seek to do what I enjoy doing and seek challenges.”
“Faith has always been a part of my
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
Seminary bound Above: Seminarian Dr. Tim Truster is shown in Our Lady of the Mountains Chapel in the Diocese of Knoxville Chancery, where the Men's Discernment Group meets once a month. Below: Seminarian Rick Hoelzel will be attending St. Meinrad beginning next month as he studies to become a Diocese of Knoxville priest.
life, and I also love serving. Community service has been something my parents instilled in me,” he shared.
As he began to discern a call to the priesthood, the idea wasn’t foreign since he has had an active faith life.
But he can point to a specific day and time when the whisper became a shout, and the nudge was much more than a tug.
“It was the vigil Mass at Pentecost in 2024. My parents and I were on a family vacation going to Williamsburg, Va. We stopped over in Roanoke, sort of the halfway point (from Knoxville) on the vigil of Pentecost. I shared with them on the drive that I had been in spiritual direction for the past four months with one of the deacons in the diocese, Deacon Bob Denne.
“I’ve been very career-driven, and I’m getting older, so I need to be intentional about considering some type of vocation. I considered married life or diaconate life. I know what being a priest would mean. It would be giving up what I’m doing,” Dr. Truster said.
The All Saints parishioner has tried to remain open to what the Holy Spirit’s plan for him is, and he prays about it often.
“I’ve had an interior struggle of being fully open to whether that is the direction God is calling me to,” he acknowledged.
He has been following the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal and the Paulist Fathers as part of his discernment.
“I was at the Pentecost vigil Mass. And as I was walking in next to the priest, there was some little nudge that told me to pay attention today. During his homily he mentioned that this was the anniversary of his ordination, and he also is a later-in-life vocation. When people asked him why he discerned into the priesthood, he put it this way: in God’s economy, all things are put to use,” Dr. Truster recalled.
“Hearing that, Dad and I both looked at each other because I had been talking about vocational things during the car ride. He had that on his mind, and we both heard the priest, so it spoke to us,” he added.
He then described how during the Liturgy of the Eucharist, when the priest elevated the Eucharist and exclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God, behold Him who takes away the sins of the world,” he had an interior vision, seeing himself in the role of the priest.
“That persisted for about 10-15 minutes until the Eucharist was reposed. I now refer to that as my St. Paul moment. My feelings go from wow, this is real, to wow, this is real, but what does this mean for me, to a peace and a calm, to ultimately a resignation that
year student who will study for seven years before being ordained.
“I’m not worried about the study part. But it will be different. It will be more memorization, reading, and writing compared to the engineering work. But I do memorize things well. I will probably need to make room for this knowledge and let some other things seep out,” he said, noting that he is looking forward to his formation, deepening his spirituality, and community life “because I have lived alone for a very long time. Living with others in a house will be different.”
He attended a Missionaries of the Precious Blood assembly in June in St. Louis. The order is a society of apostolic life, and its members make promises of charity and fidelity to each other.
I will answer this call and not go away sad like the rich young man. I’ll answer the Lord’s calling here and pursue this,” he explained.
“That’s the day I decided that’s what I’m going to seek out. Seek out where God’s calling me to be a priest,” he noted.
He shared that the realization during Mass shook him up, and he asked his father to give him some quiet time after Mass. He described his parents as supportive of his decision.
He shared the news with close friends who are accompanying him on this vocational journey.
“Mom, I think, kind of came to terms some years ago that she probably was not going to be having grandkids, at least not any time soon. She has been getting grand-nieces and grand-nephews,” he observed. “My parents have always wanted me to be happy in whatever I’m doing. They’ve seen that I have been stressed these last several years.”
Dr. Truster shared that since he received academic tenure, and being true to himself, he has wondered what is next, a question that never went away.
“There is always that next goal. Being a Knights of Columbus Grand Knight, that was fulfilling in some ways. … I was doing some things with the university, and in some ways that was fulfilling, too,” he said. “I was seeing if those pursuits would lead to ultimate fulfillment, and they didn’t seem like they were.”
Now, he knows that his decision to pursue the priesthood is a gift from God the Father.
“Seeing a son opening that gift and receiving it, I cried a little at that moment,” he shared.
So, what is next for Dr. Truster?
“I’m selling my house and moving away in early August. I’m giving up my professorship, but I will have some transitional period for this,” he said. “It’s seeking a different way to apply things.”
The money he makes off the sale of his Knoxville home he plans to use to pay off his parents’ home, and he will move some of his things there.
“I’m not completely giving away everything. But it is a big shift,” he acknowledged.
Dr. Truster will be joining the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, an international religious order founded in Italy with its U.S. base located in Dayton, Ohio. He said the order is in about 19 countries and has a presence in several U.S. cities.
As part of his discernment, he initially considered being a priest of the Diocese of Knoxville, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, the Paulist Fathers, and the Society of Mary, or Marianists. He reached out to those organizations for information.
He only knew about the Missionaries of the Precious Blood through a roommate during his undergraduate years in college. But the order seemed a good fit.
As he begins his journey to the priesthood, he will transition from Knoxville homeowner to Chicago dorm student and from a professor with an engineering Ph.D. to a first-
“Apostolic is mission first and then community life. Your prayer life and life together sustain that ministry. They are active, and in some ways that speaks to me because I tend to be one who likes to do things. But I still like grounding within a band of brothers,” he observed. “Their main charisms would be reconciliation, renewal, and the spirituality of the Precious Blood.”
Once ordained, Dr. Truster could be assigned to a parish affiliated with the Missionaries, or help lead retreats, or assist in reconciliation centers, or possibly be a professor at a Missionaries of the Precious Blood college in Indiana. Assisting with missions affiliated with the order in other countries also is a possibility.
“The things that they do are all things that I imagine myself doing one day. That’s where I feel it’s a good fit,” he said.
Dr. Truster describes 2025 as the year of letting go as he transitions from engineering to religious life. He said various internal and external factors helped him release his grip on things he has loved for a long time and make it easier for him to let go. He plans to continue performing research as a hobby, and he also may do some writing on the side.
He’s inspired by the reaction he has received from the few people he has shared his news with.
“No one has been negative. Most everyone has been positive. Anyone I grew up with said they are not surprised at all. They have seen this in me for a while. People around Knoxville have been receptive, but they are sad to see me go. But most of the people around here do not know. I’m trying to have goodbyes in the time I have left here. I’m grateful for the support throughout. That confirms the big change,” he said.
‘God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called’ Rick Hoelzel and Dr. Truster have somewhat of a shared background on their path to the priesthood.
Like Dr. Truster, Mr. Hoelzel is originally from Ohio, he is an engineer, and he has discerned a call to the priesthood later in life. That call has been difficult to disregard.
And just as have Mr. Sompayrac and Dr. Truster, Mr. Hoelzel has excitedly embraced the desire to more intimately serve God.
The Reynoldsburg, Ohio, native will be entering seminary next month as a 51-year-old first-year student. He is the oldest of three children, with one brother and one sister. His brother, Gregory, lives in Cleveland, Ohio, is married, and has three daughters. His sister, Rochelle Bomely, is married with two daughters and lives in Chicago. His father, Frederick, lives in Westerville, Ohio, and his mother, Evelyn, lives in Chicago.
Mr. Hoelzel was raised in a Catholic home and attended Catholic school in first through fourth grades. He then attended public school from fifth grade through high school.
He was active in his faith as a child and into high school, serving at Masses and being involved in church activities. After high school, his hometown pastor identified Mr. Hoelzel as a possible future priest.
“He asked if I had ever considered the priesthood. I think that’s probably when the call was starting, even though I probably wasn’t seeing it myself. He saw it, and that’s when other
Discern continued on page A21
BILL BREWER
COURTESY OF RICK HOELZEL
people started mentioning it to me, which started my discernment process.” Mr. Hoelzel said, noting that he always has had a calling to help people.
As he was deciding on a career path in college, he thought the marriage of his interest in mathematics and science and a desire to help people made engineering a natural choice.
“I liked science, and I was fairly good at it. As I learned more about what engineering was and how you applied science to make things better, I thought, well, that’s something I could do to help other people,” he reasoned.
That led to a degree in industrial engineering and his work in the automotive industry in Middle Tennessee.
“While I became an industrial engineer, I always had that calling in the back of my mind, or in the forefront. I really didn’t know what it was until I started learning more about my faith and growing in faith,” he said. “Eventually, this brought me into a connection with St. Meinrad in Indiana and the Benedictines.”
Last September, Mr. Hoelzel took part in a Benedictine Oblate Novice program that St. Meinrad sponsors. The program is for people who believe they have a Benedictine spirituality.
“As I continue to grow in my faith, that is something I thought would be joyful that I could take part in. As I started that program, I started thinking more seriously about the priesthood and whether that is what God is calling me to.
“I think that for all of us, no matter what vocation we have, God is there calling us to a certain charism. It’s something that has happened to me. And I’m trying to answer the call every day when I wake up. It’s my responsibility to say yes,” he said.
Mr. Hoelzel is particularly fond of the saying, “God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called,” and believes it could apply to him.
He acknowledged some insecurities in answering the call to serve God through His Son, Jesus Christ, and in sharing Christ’s teachings.
It’s a major decision, one he wonders if he is worthy to make. But he has a good support system to assist him in his discernment.
“As I continue to discern, the support from what really is special about the Diocese of Knoxville is the Men’s Discernment Group, where other people are discerning a vocation, too. It doesn’t have to be with the diocese. It’s just men who have a similar calling. It’s a real supportive group, so that is something that really helped me in my discerning along with being part of the Benedictine Oblate,” Mr. Hoelzel said.
The Spring Hill, Tenn., resident has taken part in the Men’s Discernment Group each month since last October, even though he is in another part of the state. East Tennessee is familiar territory to Mr. Hoelzel, who also lived briefly in Chattanooga and attended St. Stephen Church.
He is grateful for the fellowship experience, which he said ignited his discernment.
“I give a lot of credit to Father Schuster, Father Arthur, Beth Parsons [diocesan vocations office manager], and Bishop [Mark] Beckman for organizing that. It has been something special that I have never experienced in my discerning up to that point, whether it be with a religious community or a diocese,” Mr. Hoelzel shared.
He also credits a priest at the parish near his hometown, Father Jerome Rodenfels of Church of the Resurrection in New Albany, Ohio, as well as Father Eric Fowlkes and Father Thomas Kalam, CMI, of St. Henry Parish in Nashville for his formation.
“The Discernment Group has been a great avenue for understanding what is next on the path, especially for someone who is starting in his 50s. I didn’t want to delay my discernment. I wanted to progress,” he added.
Mr. Hoelzel described how he was moved by Bishop Beckman at the bishop’s ordination and installation on July 26, 2024.
“Since he was from Nashville, I drove over to the ordination with a few of my friends. I didn’t know him at the time. What he said at the end of Mass was very encouraging for someone like me who is considering a vocation of any type. He said, ‘It’s not about me; it’s about Jesus.’ That was really the spark that has turned into formation. I’m trying to turn that spark into a flame,” he shared.
What that formation means to him right now is being a ministerial servant to Jesus. What does that look like? Well, he was invited to be an altar server during the Diocese of Knoxville’s Chrism Mass during Holy Week. He also served at the priestly ordination Mass for Father A.J. Houston and Father Renzo Alvarado Suarez in June. Both Masses, led by Bishop Beckman, were at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
St. Meinrad informed Mr. Hoelzel on July 9 that he has been admitted into seminary beginning next month. He plans to give his employer notice that he is stepping down before he reports to St. Meinrad. He rents his residence, so there will be no house to sell.
“I’m very happy but also very thankful to the Diocese of Knoxville for sponsoring me,” he said, noting that he will be a priest of the diocese when ordained in seven years.
He explored joining a religious order but felt called to be a diocesan priest in East Tennessee. He is looking forward to studying his faith with like-minded men of Generation Z (Gen Z), Genera-
Vocations: Strengthening the Call
tion Y (Millennials), and maybe even a few from Generation X. And he is excited about the challenge of learning new things.
“I’m looking forward to being able to keep up with the younger guys. They are going to keep me young. I have no hesitation at all. Right now, it’s just pure thankfulness for the encouragement and prayers of my family, friends, priests, and the bishop. Like Bishop Beckman said, it’s not about me; it’s about Jesus. I will keep the people of East Tennessee in my prayers, and I would request a small prayer for me and for those in seminary already for the diocese, and those like me just starting,” Mr. Hoelzel said.
He believes his experiences over 51 years will serve him well as he begins this new chapter in his life. And those experiences could prove invaluable to his classmates. Marriage and children are not part of those experiences. Mr. Hoelzel has been a bachelor all his adult life.
Mr. Hoelzel is more than ready to begin this next chapter.
“I’ve been discerning for so long. It’s time. That’s the biggest feeling I have right now. It has always been, it’s time. Before, it’s always been what can I do more. I am a server. Can I be an extraordinary minister? Yes. So, I did that. I was a reader. I’ve been in choir since I graduated from college. I was involved in youth ministry. I was always praying for the next level of my faith journey,” he said, pointing out that he has done spiritual direction at St. Meinrad.
After praying for years about his vocation, everything is moving fast now for the Ohio native who will become an East Tennessean.
“It isn’t overwhelming, but it seems that my time is here. I finally feel comfortable and very happy. I’m
probably the happiest I’ve been in my faith journey,” he shared.
According to Father Torres, the Diocese of Knoxville is redoubling its efforts to promote vocations and identify more men and women who are interested in religious life.
“At the Vocation Office, along with Bishop Mark, we have been working quite strongly to raise an awareness in all the priests of the diocese to help us foster more vocations for the Diocese of Knoxville. There have been in the past some events, like Vocation Story Night for seminarians, priests, consecrated religious, and married couples to share with us how their vocation started and how important it was for them to say yes to the Lord. Now, the Vocation Office has centered more on encouraging more men to prayerfully consider discerning a vocation to the priesthood,” Father Torres said.
“We are now focusing on having help from pastors and other priests in the diocese along with some small groups that the parishes will create to help encounter more men and women who are open to follow the voice of the Good Shepherd. Precisely, our last Priests Convocation that was held in Knoxville in June was about vocation ministry. I think in some way, it would be much ‘easier’ for the parish priest to be approached by the young men who already know them who can best help these possible candidates for priesthood to start with them the preliminary discernment about the calling,” the pastor of OLPH added.
Father Torres invited men interested in finding out more about the priesthood to visit the Men’s Discernment Group the fourth Saturday of each month at the Chancery or contact the Vocations Office at 865-584-3307 ■
Matthew Joseph Seaver passed away on June 22. He graduated from Knoxville Catholic High School in 2010 and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Tennessee.
At the time of his passing, he was a partner and key commercial and national accounts manager at MidAtlantic Roofing Supply & Metal Roofing Systems.
Mr. Seaver’s personality could be described as competitive, goofy, and loyal. From childhood, he loved anything in the form of competition; NASCAR, Oklahoma football, and baseball were his favorites. He wanted to win at any game and would change the rules of board games to win if he had to. His birthdays were spent eating yellow cake with chocolate icing. He often could be found listening to John Mayer and attempting to learn the song for himself on the guitar.
Mr. Seaver’s other interests included trains, volcanoes, weather, and above all, his yard. If you knew him, you knew about two things: his children and his yard. He was equally passionate and proud of both.
Mr. Seaver married his best friend, Regan, on Nov. 18, 2017, and his life changed again when he became a dad to Nora Reed Seaver in October 2021. She changed his heart and his whole world.
If you knew Mr. Seaver, you knew two different men: before and after becoming a dad. Fatherhood changed the way he viewed the world and changed the way he cared for those around him. It also changed his sense of humor. Mr. Seaver was constantly working on his dad jokes and subjecting friends to them.
After becoming a father, all he wanted was time; time with his family, time to build his business, and time to dream.
Mr. Seaver’s son, Harrison, was born in February, and once again life changed for the better. Life as a family of four was chaotic, overwhelming, fun, beautiful, and lovely. He was a wonderful husband, a devoted son, a kind brother, a hard worker, and an incredible “Dada.” He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Mr. Seaver is preceded in death by his grandfather, George Fulton Seaver, and his father, George “Joey” Fulton Seaver Jr.
He is survived by his wife, Regan Seaver; daughter, Nora Seaver; son, Harrison Seaver; mother, Diana Seaver; sister, Hannah Logan; brother-in-law, James Logan; nephew, Toa Logan; and brother, Ryan Seaver.
A funeral Mass for Mr. Seaver was held on July 3 at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut.
Donations in Mr. Seaver’s memory may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Dumplin Valley, the St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic, or the Mount Juliet Help Center.
Stephen L. Kirk Jr.
Stephen L. Kirk Jr., age 86 of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on June 29 at University of Tennessee Medical Center. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Mr. Kirk was born on Sept. 29, 1938, in Knoxville. He was the eldest son of eight children born to Stephen L. Kirk Sr. and Anna Mae Kirk. He grew up in Knoxville, where he was a graduate of Knoxville Catholic High School, class of 1957.
Mr. Kirk earned a business degree from Knoxville Business College in 1959 and 1976. He
served in the U.S. Army from 1961 until 1967.
Faithful Departed
Mr. Kirk owned and operated Kirk’s Catering. In addition to his daily route, he catered events such as boat regattas, and auctions, and was a staple on Saturdays in the fall at University of Tennessee football games.
He was a loving husband for 51 years to his wife, Gerry, also of Knoxville. He was the foundation of strength and support for his family. Together, Mr. and Mrs. Kirk raised two children, Stephen L. III and Vanessa. He was a devoted father who offered guidance, love, and kindness.
Mr. Kirk was a doting grandfather who adored his grandchildren. He cherished spending time with family. He brought warmth and happiness to those around him. He loved to laugh and share stories about his past.
He had many passions in life: he was dedicated to caring for others; he was a loving son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather; and he was a charter member of his parish, the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
He was a Fourth Degree Knight and honorary lifetime member in the Knights of Columbus Council 5207. He always had a sense of humor that could light up the room.
Mr. Kirk is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Bassett Montgomery; and his brother, Monsignor Thomas Kirk. He is survived by his wife, Gerry; his children Stephen L. (Amy) Kirk III and Vanessa (Greg) Draeger; and three grandchildren, Lorenzo IV, Xavier, and Kirklyn; his siblings, Joe B. (Helen) Kirk Sr., Anne (Jay) Gallegos, Father John Kirk, Joan (Russ) Lyttle, and Philip (Suzanne) Kirk, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
A funeral Mass for Mr. Kirk was celebrated on July 8 at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Father David Boettner served as the celebrant with Father Martin Gladysz concelebrating. Father John Kirk and Father John O Neill were in choir. Burial followed at Calvary Cemetery in Knoxville.
Donations in Mr. Kirk’s memory may be made to the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, 711 S. Northshore Dr., Knoxville, TN 37919.
Dr. John Benjamin Brimi
Dr. John Benjamin Brimi died peacefully on June 16 surrounded by the love of his family.
pecially and cultivated a deep love for art and literature.
Dr. Brimi also supported the University of Tennessee athletics programs as an avid fan and donor. His charitable nature extended to many organizations, especially those supporting Catholic education and ministry. He attended St. John Neumann Church in Farragut.
Dr. and Mrs. Brimi traveled extensively. They made numerous trips to Las Vegas, where he used his intellect and discipline to become a formidable presence at the poker table. They saw much of the American West and Europe. They particularly appreciated restful vacations at Fernandina Beach, Fla.
Though a busy physician, Dr. Brimi always made time for family. He coached many of his son Hunter’s youth baseball teams and enthusiastically attended his high school and college games. He cherished family reunions whether at the beach or at home.
He was an animal lover, as well. He was involved in greyhound rescue and counted Gunnar, Walter, Lolo, Hank, a special Doberman, Penny, and a coon hound, Ann, as canine family members.
Dr. Brimi is predeceased by his wife, Betty, and parents, Robert and Hazel Brimi, as well as his sister, Barbara, brothers, Paul and William, and niece, Cathy Perkins. He is survived by his son, Ben (Lore) Mandrell; their daughters, Kerrigan and Anna; and his son, Hunter (Carrie) Brimi.
Surviving siblings are Robert (Connie) Brimi, Mary Kay Brimi, Carol (Bob) Rhinehart, Elizabeth Brimi, and Patricia (Tom) Janney. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and cousins. Surviving in-law relations include Jo Fowler, Beth Headrick, and Eddie Fowler, Jr., as well as kind neighbors Mary and Ralph Henry.
A funeral Mass for Dr. Brimi was held on July 1 at St. John Neumann Church.
Donations in Dr. Brimi’s memory may be made to the Catholic Bishop of Northern Alaska, the Christian Appalachian Project, or St. Labre Indian School.
Shirley Ann Krebs
cially enjoying time with her grandchildren.
Left to cherish her memory are her sister, Donna Timmers; sons, Dr. George Krebs Jr. (Myra) and Joe Krebs (Chantel), and daughters, Lori Puryear and Julie Edmondson (Carl); grandchildren, Sarah Burns (Joseph), Alex Krebs (Emma), Katie Schreiber (Bryan), Andrew Cook, Ryan Cook, Matthew Puryear, Blake Edmondson (Kelsey), and Peyton Krebs; stepgrandchildren Branton Brown, Dan Edmondson (Andrea), Josh Edmondson (Charity), Katie Meister (Jon), Carla Pimental (Mike), Cory Richardson, and Cameron Richardson (Carolyn); great-grandchildren, Avalyn Maier, Josie Burns, Keaton Schreiber, and Kaiden Schreiber; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by brother William “Bill” E. Simon and wife Dixie, brotherin-law Paul “Tim” H. Timmers, son-in-law Marshall H. Puryear, and granddaughter Leza A. Watts.
The family wishes to express heartfelt appreciation for the loving and compassionate care received from the administration and staff of Canterfield of Oak Ridge assisted living and registered nurse Tanya Maxie from Covenant Hospice of Oak Ridge, as well as Theresa Tinch, Mrs. Krebs’ devoted sitter and friend, for her kindness and companionship. In addition, the family would like to express gratitude to dear friends Father Dennis Kress, pastor of St. Therese Parish, and Deacon Dan Hosford of St. Joseph Parish in Norris for their unwavering weekly visits, prayers, and administering the sacraments.
A funeral Mass for Mrs. Krebs was celebrated on May 31 at St. Therese Church, with a burial service following at Grandview Memorial Garden in Clinton. Donations in Mrs. Krebs' memory may be made to the Building Debt Reduction Fund at St. Therese Church, 701 S. Charles G. Seivers Blvd., Clinton, TN 37716, or the Employee Appreciation Fund at Canterfield of Oak Ridge, 200 Bus Terminal Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830.
Jonathan McWhirter
Born in Ann Arbor, Mich., Dr. Brimi grew up in Knoxville, graduating from Knoxville Catholic High School (class of 1962) and the University of Tennessee, where he was a member and president of Phi Delta Theta. He later earned his medical degree at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. He also served in the U.S. Navy, stationed primarily in Norfolk, Va. He was married to Betty Fowler Brimi for nearly 52 years, living mostly in Chattanooga and Knoxville.
Dr. Brimi led a life fueled by curiosity and characterized by good humor and an amiable temperament. Aside from practicing ophthalmology in Chattanooga, he was a student of many facets of life. He enjoyed science geology, biology, and physics, es -
Shirley Ann “Tootie” Krebs of Clinton, age 93, passed away peacefully on May 20 at Canterfield of Oak Ridge assisted living Mrs. Krebs was born on March 12, 1932, in Southgate, Ky., to the late Edward William and Aileen Elizabeth Simon. She attended St. Therese School in Southgate, where she met her husband, George Henry Krebs Sr. She graduated from Notre Dame High School in Covington, Ky., and married Mr. Krebs in February 1954 after his return from service in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean conflict.
Mr. and Mrs. Krebs raised four children. They relocated to Clinton in 1969, where they owned and operated Krebs Chevrolet in Clinton for 22 years, with Mrs. Krebs serving as office manager and bookkeeper, a skill she learned while working for her father at Simon & Fischer Oldsmobile in Newport, Ky.
Mrs. Krebs was a devout Catholic and founding member of St. Therese Church in Clinton. She was an active member of the Council of Catholic Women for many years, participated in Bible study groups, sponsored numerous converts through the RCIA process, and promoted devotion to the Divine Mercy.
In addition to her deep faith, Mrs. Krebs’ devotion to her family was a top priority, espe -
Jonathan David McWhirter, age 53, of Knoxville, passed away on May 12. He was preceded in death by his father, Ken; and his grandparents, Jack and Mildred Coode of Nashville, and David and Virginia McWhirter of Knoxville.
Mr. McWhirter is survived by his devoted mother, Ellen; sister, Grace (Neil) Lawley; nieces, Cara (Evan) Pohler and Rose Lawley; nephew, Luke McWhirter Lawley; great nephew, Owen Pohler; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Mr. McWhirter attended St. Joseph School and Central High School. He will be remembered for his love of music, anything Irish, and his sense of humor.
A memorial Mass for Mr. McWhirter was held at Immaculate Conception Church on May 19, with Father Jim Haley, CSP, serving as the celebrant. Concelebrants were Father Charlie Donahue, CSP, and Father John O’Neill. Deacon Joe Stackhouse served as deacon of the Mass. A burial service for Mr. McWhirter was to be at Calvary Cemetery in Nashville.
The family would like to thank all the friends of Jon who loved him unconditionally.
Donations in Mr. McWhirter’s memory can be made to the America Diabetes Association.
Mr. Seaver
Matthew Seaver
Mr. Kirk
Dr. Brimi
Mrs. Krebs
Mr. McWhirter
Clyde Mosier Sr.
Clyde Eugene Mosier Sr., 69, passed away on May 18 surrounded by his family. He was born on Jan. 24, 1956, and raised in Chattanooga. He was of the Catholic faith.
Mr. Mosier enjoyed reading, fishing, camping, gardening, carpentry, watching westerns, and spending time with his family. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who was gentle, caring, giving, strongwilled, loving, God-fearing, kindspirited, a great role model, and hard-working.
Mr. Mosier is preceded in death by Viola Mosier, Raymond Mosier, Clyde Mosier Jr., Joshua Mosier, Brenda Brooks, Hoyt Mosier, Billy Mosier, Ronnie Mosier, Ricky Mosier, James Mosier, Paulie Devlin, Earnest Mosier, and Charles Cronnon.
He is survived by his loving wife, Darlene Mosier; daughters, Christy Beck, Viola Medrano, Samantha Garrison, Joanna Williams, Theresa Johnson, Rebecca Weber, and Amanda Smith; siblings, Julia Bryan, Stanley Mosier, and Gary Mosier; grandchildren, Kurstie Beck, Christopher Beck, Taylor Beck, Sierra Patterson, Brian Jackson, Tiana Bailey, Jordan Mosier, Joshua Mosier Jr., Jessica Parker, Gabriel Medrano, Abigail Medrano, Selena Medrano, River Garrison, Joslynn Mabry, Jonah Smith, Kaylah Johnson, Bella Johnson, Braden Johnson, Mia Johnson, Makai Weber, and McKenzie Weber; greatgrandchildren, Jason Valle, Jaiden Valle, Joshua Valle, Jailey Beck, Raider Haney, Ruth Haney, Austin Sims, Morgan Sims, Bradley Sims, Savannah Sims, Eli Beck, Charlotte Bailey, Elise Bailey, Lucca Bailey, Adeleigh Johnson, Nova Campbell, Leo Medrano, Grayson Mabry, Violet Mosier, and Sean Parker.
A funeral Mass for Mr. Mosier was held on May 24 at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga, with Father David Carter serving as the celebrant.
Sheila Albert
Sheila I. McGrane Albert, formerly of Lincoln Park, Mich., and a resident of Knoxville since 1975, passed away peacefully on May 16 at the age of 87.
Mrs. Albert was born on Oct. 2, 1937, in Lincoln Park to Bernard and Mary McGrane. She lived a life centered on faith, family, and a love for exploration.
She was a devoted and active member of Immaculate Conception Church in Knoxville, and she found great strength and joy in her faith community.
Mrs. Albert will be remembered for her deep love of her family and her passion for traveling, which brought her many wonderful memories and stories. Her warmth, devotion, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Mrs. Albert is preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Mary McGrane, and her siblings: Bernard and Vira McGrane, William and Lillian Totten, Mary Peshinski, Edward and Pat Domanski, and Casey Stauder (James).
She was the beloved wife of Joseph Albert Sr. and the cherished mother of Susan Albert Florek (Richard), Michael Albert (Terry), John Albert, and the late Joseph Albert Jr. She is survived by her grandchildren, Taylor Albert Craig (Chester),
Faithful Departed
Hunter Albert, Joseph Zachary Albert, Catherine Albert Talbert (Mark), and William Albert; her great-grandchildren, Ollie Craig and Adeline Craig; and her brotherin-law, James Stauder.
A funeral Mass for Mrs. Albert was celebrated on May 19 at Immaculate Conception, with Father Tim Sullivan, CSP, serving as the celebrant. A burial service followed at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Patsy Jean Thompson
Patsy Jean Dembowski Thompson passed away peacefully in the company of her husband and children on May 30 at Canterfield retirement community in Oak Ridge.
Mrs. Thompson was born on Jan. 31,1933, in her grandmother’s house in Oshkosh, Wis., to Jerome and Irene (Brueske) Dembowski.
She spent her early years in Oshkosh, where she received her elementary education. Later, her family moved to Waubay, S.D., where her family raised mink. She graduated from Waubay High School in 1950.
Following high school, she worked for Bell Telephone in Aberdeen, S.D. She later enrolled at Presentation College School of Nursing and graduated as a registered nurse in 1955. She began her nursing career at her alma mater, St. Luke Hospital in Aberdeen, S.D., and later worked in Minnesota.
During her college years at Presentation School of Nursing, she met the love of her life and lifelong partner, Ed Thompson, who was a student at Northern State University. On Dec. 28, 1955, they were united in marriage at the Catholic church in Mrs. Thompson’s hometown of Waubay, S.D. They were married just seven months short of 70 years.
To this union five children were born: Terri, Tamara, Michael, Lori, and Lisa. The family later expanded to 15 grandchildren and at last count 27 great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Thompson became a Catholic at the time of her marriage in 1955 and belonged to the various Catholic churches in the communities where they resided. She was most recently a member of St. Therese Parish in Clinton. After retirement she lived at Pickerel Lake in Minnesota, Hilton Head Island, S.C., and in Oak Ridge.
She was devoted to her husband and family and enjoyed various activities with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
She loved music and sang in church choirs, was in a singing group while in nurses training, and later in life was a member of the Mountain Strings, playing both the dulcimer and ukulele. She was also an accomplished seamstress and needle pointer, and an excellent quilter, having made quilts for each of her children and grandchildren.
Mrs. Thompson was preceded in death by her father, mother, sister Nancy, and son-in-law Jonathan Peterson. She is survived by her husband, Ed; daughters Terri (Dave Felde), Tamara (Tim Becker), Lori Peterson, and Lisa Turner; son Michael (Lori); and sister, Carol Rudy.
A funeral Mass for Mrs. Thompson was held at St. Therese Church on June 5. A burial service was held at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Knoxville on June 6.
Mary Kathleen Yochim
In the early hours of May 21, as the night sky was filled with brilliant lightning and thunderous clouds, Mary Kathleen O’Connor Yochim, aka Kathy/Grammy, passed away quietly at University of Tennessee Medical Center after a brief battle with cancer.
Mrs. Yochim was born on May 10, 1948, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Knoxville and is the oldest of 14 children born to Charles Gregory O’Connor and Jeanne McWhirter.
She was raised in Knoxville and was a graduate of Knoxville Catholic High School. Working for United Airlines in Washington, D.C., she met Patrick James Yochim. The two married on Oct. 17, 1970, and enjoyed 51 loving years together.
Mrs. Yochim’s time in nursing school led to a long career in medical insurance. As a faithful member of her church, she was active with Immaculate Conception Parish’s women’s group, bereavement committee, two prayer groups, food pantry, Bag Lady’s Plus 4 group (weaving blankets for homeless), altar society, Ladies of Charity, and so much more.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, her sister, Martha Lou Canfield, her brother, Thomas Christopher O’Connor, and nephew Stewart Hazenfield.
She is survived by her children, Brian Matthew Yochim and wife Meridith Christine Dauss Yochim, and their children, Hayden Matthew, Elijah James, Lucas Timothy, and Peyton Andrew; and Anne Elizabeth Yochim Smith and husband Dr. Chadwick Lee Smith and their children, Maddox Hudson and Charlize “Charlee” Elizabeth; siblings, Jean Ann Savery, Jody (Jim) Hazenfield, Greg (Nancy) O’Connor, Jane O’Connor, Tim (Terry) O’Connor, Bob (Renee) O’Connor, Eileen (Scott) Van Fleet, Kevin (Tracy) O’Connor, Maggie (Greg) Heaton, Marie (Mike) Ensley, Becca O’Connor, Bill O’Connor (Brad Froslee), and Norm (Priscilla) Canfield; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Mrs. Yochim has graciously donated her body to science. A future graveside burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Knoxville.
A memorial Mass was held on June 21 at Immaculate Conception Church, with Father Jim Haley, CSP, serving as the celebrant.
Memorial donations in Mrs. Yochim’s memory may be made to Ladies of Charity in care of Immaculate Conception Church, 414 W. Vine Ave., Knoxville, TN 37902.
Dorothy Kliemann
Dorothy L. Kliemann, age 100, of Knoxville, passed away on May 24 at home.
She was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish.
Mrs. Kliemann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Anthony J. Kliemann; grandson, Steve Zubatch, and sons-in-law, Wally Triffle and Rich Zubatch. She is survived by her children, Tony and Mary Kliemann, Diana Kliemann, Pat Zubatch, Shirley Triffle, Robert and Gayle Kliemann, Karen and Tim Martindale, Kathy and Lowell Hohstadt; 13 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Mrs. Kliemann delighted in her ever-growing family, which celebrated her 100th birthday with her last summer. She loved to laugh right to the end, but she was ready to join her husband.
A funeral Mass for Mrs. Kliemann was held on June 13 at Immaculate Conception Church.
Mary Alice Lynn
Mary Alice Farmer Lynn was
born in Chattanooga to Jeanne Phifer Farmer and Joseph Patrick Farmer on June 22, 1948. She passed away on June 18.
Mrs. Lynn graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1966. She was a very talented classical pianist after having had instruction for 10 years. She loved tennis, golf, and gardening but cooking was at the top.
She worked at the health department before becoming employed by TVA. After a time in Chattanooga, she was transferred to the Knoxville offices. There she married Robert Lynn, and the two were married for 32 years. They adopted their precious Luba Michelle from Russia in 1995. She was the light of her life, and she retired early to enjoy becoming a mother.
Her happiest days were sharing time with all of her family, sitting by the pool, having cookouts, and making salsa and cherry pies. And she was a serious birdwatcher. She lived her life honestly and with her whole heart. She lived a life the way God intended, true and faithful. Her smile was contagious, spreading to everyone who saw it, making the world a better place. She leaves behind her mother, Jeanne Farmer of Chattanooga; her husband, Robert Lynn; her daughter, Luba, and son-in-law, Taylor Groce, their two boys, Niklaus and Aiden, ages 7 and 1 month old; her brother, Richard P. Farmer (deceased) and wife Trudy; her younger brother, James Matthew Farmer; her sister, Sally Farmer Rossmann and her husband, Paul; and her niece, Lake Browne and son, Iden. A funeral Mass for Mrs. Lynn was held on June 23 at Holy Ghost Church, with Father John Orr serving as the celebrant. A burial service was held on June 25 at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Knoxville.
Joyce Fazio
Joyce Marietta (Ferry) Fazio, age 87, passed away peacefully on May 6. She was born and raised in Staten Island, N.Y., where she lived until moving to Howell Township, N.J., in 1969 with her husband and three children.
She enjoyed a full life in Howell Township raising Samoyed show dogs, embarking on a broadcast journalism career, and becoming a stockbroker with Merril Lynch. In her retirement, she moved to Hilton Head Island, S.C., and returned to school, earning her master’s degree in psychology. Mrs. Fazio will be remembered for her quick wit, her charm, her beautiful smile, her love of the arts, and her brilliance.
She is preceded in death by her husband and best friend of 20 years, Thomas Fazio; her father, Thomas Charles Ferry; her mother, Dorothy Victoria (Rogoff) Ferry; her brother, Thomas Donald Ferry; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Mrs. Fazio is survived by her three children, daughter Colby Reynaud and husband Steve Grossbard; son, Thomas Reynaud; daughter, Danielle Candido; her four grandchildren, Timothy Costagliola and wife Alyssa; Mollie Candido; Michel Candido; and Sean Candido; and her great-grandson, Theo Costagliola. She is also survived by loving cousins, nieces and nephews, and their families.
A funeral Mass for Mrs. Fazio was celebrated on June 14 at Immaculate Conception Church in Knoxville. ■
Mr. Mosier
Mrs. Albert
Mrs. Yochim
Mrs. Kliemann
Mrs. Thompson
Mrs. Lynn
Mrs. Fazio
in the business, who looked at our pitch and our proposal say this is the best looking, the most likely to succeed of any of the pro-faith movies that have ever been out there,” Mr. Aramian remarked.
Originally, there were plans to have the project filmed in Tennessee, but now the project has grown larger than the team envisioned.
“We’re looking at a lot of options, we’re relying on tax incentives from the various states and they’re competing for us to shoot the movie in their state,” Mr. Aramian explained.
“We have been in touch with some of the studios because we are going to need to shoot some of this on sound stages, and shooting on a sound stage will allow us to build sets and move very quickly through certain environments, through certain key locations, and so we have been looking at a variety of sound stages, including places here in Chattanooga and Nashville as well,” Ms. DiPippo added.
The script for He Named Him Adam is finalized, talent is being hired, and the distribution deal is a major milestone for the creation of the film.
“We have a tentative start date, if we can raise the money, Oct. 15,” Mr. Aramian said. “We would go into pre-production six weeks before that. We would start hiring and having meetings with the various key people and the crew, department heads, and so on. A production designer would start designing sets and so on in collaboration with Veronica, who is directing.”
Crunch Entertainment also has received several endorsements from pro-life organizations, such as Deeper Still, Tennessee Right to Life, and Choices, for the film.
“A lot of people are very excited about this movie because they immediately see the value of using it as a tool for not only encouraging women to keep their children because the trend has been of the pro-abortion lobby to use semantics to dehumanize what’s inside the womb,” Ms. DiPippo shared. “They call it now reproductive health care, and of course, taking a child’s life has nothing to do with health care. But they play these semantics games, and one of the goals of this movie is to rehumanize what’s inside the womb. To show a
Dioceses continued from page A19
to “a closeness of the priests to our people. Our people, by and large, appreciate their priests and express their love and support of them.”
different perspective about an unborn child who was aborted, which this was a child made in God’s image and likeness with a plan and a purpose. And so much so that God actually named this child.”
“I want this movie seen by millions of women; I want it used as a tool for pregnancy resource centers. And I want it also to be used as a tool for women who are suffering from post-abortive stress disorder and to be used as a healing tool as well,” she continued. “This is very much not just a movie, but it’s also a mission.”
Mr. Aramian and Ms. DiPippo first learned of
The husband-and-wife duo are known in the diocese for their recent film about Chattanooga priest Father Patrick Ryan, titled Father Ryan: A Higher Call. The docudrama was featured on the Eternal World Television Network (EWTN) and was streamed on the FORMED Network.
The couple are members of the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga.
For more information on the progress of the film, visit henamedhimadam.com ■
The Diocese of Wichita holds an annual retreat for prospective seminarians and has a “multifaceted vocation promotion program” that includes outreach on university campuses throughout the state, Bishop Kemme noted. Bishop Kemme also highlighted the diocese’s active and dedicated Serra Clubs, which help support priestly vocations through scholarships and prayer; strong Catholic schools and home schools that emphasize Catholic identity; an “unusually high” Sunday Mass attendance in the diocese; and the example of many young priests.
Above all, Bishop Kemme said the vocation boom can be attributed to Christ in the Eucharist, devotion to whom has been promoted within the diocese for decades.
“Adoration chapels abound in our diocese, with many of them offering perpetual adoration, inviting every-
one—regardless of age—to consider adoration as a time to encounter the risen Christ in the Eucharist,” the bishop said. “This has been in place now for more than 40 years. I sincerely believe this is the greatest factor in our recruiting efforts. Many young men have told me that they heard the Lord speak to them about a vocation to the priesthood in adoration.” ■
Ms. Block’s story at a Chattanooga March for Life, where Ms. Block gave a speech before the march.
COURTESY OF CRUNCH ENTERTAINMENT (2)
A pro-life production Above: Crunch Entertainment is in production for its latest film, "He Named Him Adam." Right: Veronica DiPippo and Marc Aramian of Crunch Entertainment check composition and lighting in the monitor on the set of the "He Named Him Adam" trailer.