We have entered into the beginning of school and the fall schedule here at St. Monica. This Fall we will also be focusing on our capital campaign, “Legacy for our Mission.” It will be a busy time, but a good time.

Before we get too busy, however, I would like to invite a few minutes of reflection on the lives of four Archdiocesan priests whose deaths occurred this summer over a six-week period. In a diocese with160 priests, four in such a short time is indeed a flood. Each of them was a wonderful witness, and I’d like to say a little about each.

Fr. Justin Martin, 28 years old when he died of pancreatitis, was our own “Fr. Justin”. Many of you already knew Fr. Justin well, but I have been touched by the many stories of how he made a difference in other people’s lives, especially the children. Fr. Justin was vibrant, dedicated, and “magical” in his own way. We miss him, and many of us continue to smile when we think of his spirit and humor!

Msgr. John Ryan, 75 years old, died of lung cancer in early July. He was still pastoring St. Anthony parish on Indianapolis’ near eastside. He also served as Dean of the West Deanery. Msgr. Ryan was a delightful priest with a warm and friendly personality. He pastored at St. Anthony for 34 years, striving to meet the needs of his people and improve the neighborhood. For many years, he was also chaplain to Central State Hospital for people with severe mental illnesses, where he was passionately committed to their needs.

Msgr. Louis Marchino, 92 years old, also died in July. He was the founding pastor of Holy Family Parish in New Albany. Fr. Marchino - we called him Louie - was one of the most positive minded people I have ever met. We played golf together once or twice a year, and I never heard him say anything negative. Although he retired 22 years ago, he covered for parish priests every weekend until his eyesight degenerated a couple years ago.

Fr. Clarence Waldon, 66 years old when he died of pancreatic cancer, was pastor of Holy Angels here in Indianapolis. Clarence was our first African-American priest. He was a pioneer locally and nationally in Black Catholic concerns. He bridged gaps between religions and fought hard to keep Holy Angels school active and alive for the local community. He was indeed a “father figure” for Holy Angels, serving there as pastor for 35 years.

Each of these men witnessed in a different way to Christ’s Love. Each of them served God’s people with dedication and faith. My life was blessed through them, as were the lives of many, many others.

In Christ,
Fr. Paul Koetter

Rev. Paul D. Koetter
Pastor
Fr. Paul has been pastor of St. Monica since 1997. In addition to his responsibilities as pastor, Fr. Paul’s parish ministry focus is spiritual counseling and offering guidance to small church communities and parish outreach efforts. He is an active retreat director and has served in various leadership roles in the Archdiocese.

Fr. Shaun Whittington
Associate Pastor
Fr. Shaun serves as Associate Pastor of St. Monica. His ministry focus at St. Monica is marriage preparation, RCIA, Liturgy and Christ Renews His Parish.

Mary Jo Thomas-Day
Director of Religious Education
Mary Jo has been a member of the Pastoral Team at St. Monica since 1977. She coordinates the religious education, and sacramental preparation programs for students through the sixth grade who do not attend St. Monica School. She is also responsible for our adult education and bible study programs. E-mail

Joseph Connelly
Coordinator of Youth Ministry
Joe has been a Youth Minister in the Archdiocese of Indianapolis since 1991. He joined the St. Monica Pastoral Team in July, 2000. Joe is responsible for faith formation, Confirmation and youth programs for 7th grade through High School. E-mail

William Herman
Principal
Bill taught at St. Monica school in his early career and returned as Principal in 1994. In addition to his administrative duties as Principal, he works with the School Commission in maintaining the quality and high academic standards of our school. E-mail

Barb Bacon
Business Manager
Barb joined the Pastoral Team in 2002. She is responsible for accounting, budgeting, and cash management for the parish. Her duties include personnel, office, and facilities management. E-mail