The unique perspectives of retired or semi-retired priests and brothers, shaped by years of service and devotion, is a testament to faith and spirituality. Their guidance, whether in private conversations or community gatherings, offers comfort and strength to those navigating life. Their spiritual wisdom serves as an inspiration, uplifting others in their own faith and life journey.
Retired members of the USA Province remain relevant as they continue to live out their Salvatorian values and charisms, participating in and encouraging collaboration within their communities, thus demonstrating the value they offer beyond formally assigned ministry.
The following are inspiring examples of Salvatorians who remain active through stages of retirement, each contributing in their unique way. A number of our retired or semiretired members live at Alexian Village, a retirement community in Milwaukee, WI and remain active. For example, residents Frs. Roman Mueller and Mike Shay prepare and offer Mass regularly in the onsite chapel along with other priests who offer help as needed.
Salvatorians who live at Alexian Village build friendships with the residents by offering a ministry of presence through their compassionate, friendly, and open interactions. “Residents and staff within this community hold our members in high regard, often asking questions about faith and the Church,” said Bro. John Hauenstein, SDS, who serves as caretaker and advocate for our retired priests and brothers living at Alexian.
Bro. Sean McLaughlin, formerly active in youth ministry and now in retirement, continues to minister through outreach calls, talking with and thanking our
generous benefactors. When time permits, he ministers at hospitals near him.
In the Milwaukee area, Fr. David Cooney celebrates Mass in Spanish and helps in ministries and bilingual parishes around his community. And, Fr. Jim Weyker, who served nearly 50 years in Africa as a missionary, is now retired and continues to minister as a member of the Society’s Milwaukee-area regional board. He also celebrates bi-weekly Masses at another retirement community in the area.
Fr. Doug Bailey led campus ministry for 40 years, most recently in Florida. Now retired from teaching on campus, he continues to run Bible study classes and share his love of cooking with groups, especially in fundraising efforts for parishes and schools. Fr. Sal Ragusa, who is semi-retired and serves at Divine
Mercy Parish in California, initiated community time after Friday Masses as a way for parishioners to get to know each other better. They call it “the three C’s: coffee, community, conversation.”
These and all of our retired priests and brothers remain a meaningful source of support among the members of the Society, the extended Salvatorian Family, and the communities where they live. Their accumulated knowledge and insight are foundational for continuing a legacy of compassionate ministry, and are a wonderful reminder that value is not confined to past accomplishments. The ongoing impact members have on their communities is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the human spirit. These members serve as an inspiration well into their golden years