June, 2026

We Are Blessed and Empowered by Your Prayers and Support

Fr. John Schmidt, C.Ss.R.

Dear Co-Redemptorist,

The Redemptorist family have great reasons to rejoice: we are redeemed by the blood of Christ, and the Holy Spirit abundantly pours out grace for us. The Feast of Pentecost at the end of May, completed our Easter season, and moves us forward to the mission of proclaiming Christ’s plentiful redemption. These are joyful times.

We have even more reason to be joyful with the ordination of Father Steven Urban, C.Ss.R., which took place on April 18 in Kansas City. I was reflecting during his ordination on the many people who have supported and prayed for him during nine years of formation. Co-Redemptorists have been an important part of Fr. Steven’s journey, and he’s been blessed and empowered by your prayers. Thank you!

Our Redemptorist seminarians are completing this year’s studies and preparing for their student gathering at the end of the month. Br. Scott Partin, C.Ss.R., continues his pastoral year in Minneapolis as he also prepares for perpetual vows in August. He’s been supported by your prayers, and he’s dedicated to being a faithful Redemptorist filled with love and care for God’s people.

Redemptorists have Constitutions which comprise what we call our “rule of life.” They show us ideals to aspire to and grow into throughout a life faithful to our charism of preaching the gospel. Some Constitutions touch us more powerfully than others and this is one: “never grow weary of invoking the Holy Spirit…. For the Spirit has command of every situation, puts the appropriate word on the lips of the preacher and opens hearts to receive it.”

There are times when we worry about what to say or do in our pastoral witness, perhaps especially when newly ordained like Fr. Steven. We have to remember the Holy Spirit is our guide and to trust where the Spirit leads us.

Keep us in your prayer as we discern the mission to which Christ calls us. I’m grateful that you are part of the Redemptorist family.

Easter Blessings,

Father John K. Schmidt, C.Ss.R.
Director, Co-Redemptorist Association

P.S.: Have you considered including the Redemptorists in your estate plans? Through your stewardship, you share in our many Redemptorists ministries. Will you join us on this final journey of Faith? Fr. Thomas Pham, C.Ss.R., Office of Financial Services, is available to discuss a special legacy gift that can continue the Redemptorists’ work beyond your lifetime. Send him an email, or call at 312-248-8894.