July, 2026

A Special Letter of Thanks from Newly Ordained Fr. Steven Urban

Fr. John Schmidt, C.Ss.R.

Dear Co-Redemptorist,

We’re delighted to publish below this special letter from Fr. Steven Urban, C.Ss.R., recently ordained on April 18 in Kansas City. As a Co-Redemptorist, your moral and financial support have been instrumental in helping Fr. Steven to realize his dream of becoming a Redemptorist.

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

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In the Fall of 2017, I entered the seminary for the Redemptorists. I left my job as an accountant to move to the Bronx. My formation journey would cover the Bronx (NY), Lima (OH), San Antonio (TX), Guadalajara (MEX), and finish in Minneapolis (MN). On April 18, 2026, I was ordained a priest at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kansas City, MO. After being ordained, I was reassigned to Minneapolis as an associate pastor.

The journey from 2017 to 2026 has been long and at times difficult. I remember during my time in Guadalajara, one day, three young girls approached me and asked me if religious life was difficult. I looked at them and thought, “How can I lie to three kids?” Then, by God’s grace, I replied to them saying, “It is difficult, but worth it.”

My time as a Redemptorist has been worth it. I have met so many wonderful people. I have been able to journey with people for moments of celebration and moments of sorrow and pain. I am grateful to all who have allowed me into their lives. I cannot put into words how thankful I am to everyone who has supported me along the way. Your prayers, your financial generosity, and your willingness to share your lives with me have made my vocation possible.

I am extremely happy to close the chapter of my formation and open the chapter of priesthood. I have already fallen in love with celebrating the mass, and I have witnessed the profound vulnerability and grace of the confessional. I look forward to continuing to live out my calling from God, trusting God will work through me.

To all you Co-Redemptorists: thank you for everything. Your support means so much to me. In the spirit of gratitude, I think of the many seminarians still in formation. I pray that with your help and God’s grace, they too will one day write a letter like this.

God Bless,
Fr. Steven Urban, C.Ss.R.

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.