Letter from the Provincial
Dear Friends,
As the Spring 2022 issue of this magazine went to press in February, war broke out between Russia and Ukraine. I am sure that, like me, you watched in horror as scenes of devastation and despair filled our news and social media feeds. A sense of helplessness gave way to a sense of purpose when Fr. Damian Czerniak, SJ, a Polish Jesuit who had taught at Creighton Prep for three years, sent a plaintive cry for help in assisting the refugees pouring into Poland. Friends and benefactors of the Midwest Jesuits answered his call, and I am pleased to report that over $1 million has been raised and sent to support the efforts of the Polish Jesuits (page 3). I can only echo Fr. Czerniak’s heartfelt gratitude when I say, “Thank you.”
Thank you for your open hearts and willingness to support the Jesuits’ mission to Ukrainians in need. God bless you!
Fr. Damian Czerniak, SJ
Looking through these pages, I’m reminded of the 500-year-old threads that bind Jesuits like Fr. Czerniak to those called to serve in our common mission. The vision of St. Ignatius of Loyola was to gather well-formed men and women in the hope that they would attract others to the vineyard who, inspired by the Gospel, would become our partners. The celebration of our Ignatian Year, which draws to a close with the feast of St. Ignatius on July 31, testifies to the duration of his vision.
Like Ignatius, the five ordinands featured in this issue will spend their Jesuit lives inviting others to join in mission with them, such as the dedicated laypeople who serve as coaches and advancement officers at our schools (pages 18 and 21). We know that from those institutions, graduates will go forward, remaining true to their Jesuit values and inviting others to join them in service.
A lifetime of service to others is the definition of a Jesuit’s mission. Our Midwest Jesuit jubilarians are celebrating 50 years in the Society of Jesus this year; don’t miss their inspiring reflections (page 12).
And don’t miss an important letter from Fr. Tim Lannon, SJ, in the center of the magazine, which invites you to join us in the important work yet to be done.
I invite you to join me in praying for the newly ordained, that they and others may attract and inspire new leaders, and that our work together may have the blessing of our Lord.
In Christ,
V. Rev. Karl J. Kiser, SJ
Provincial, USA Midwest Jesuits
The USA Midwest Jesuits ordained five men to the priesthood on Saturday, June 11 at the Church of the Gesu in Milwaukee. From left: the Most Reverend Bernard Hebda, archbishop of St. Paul and Minneapolis, the ordaining prelate; Jesuit Frs. Stephen Molvarec; Aaron Bohr; Matthew Donovan; Joseph Kraemer; Eric Immel; and V. Rev. Karl Kiser, provincial of the Midwest Jesuits.
