Tom Lilly, chancellor of the Diocese of Owensboro, discusses the preliminary drawing of the new senior priest apartments during an Aug. 13, 2025 reception held at Immaculate Parish in Owensboro to support the Faithful Foundations Campaign. ELIZABETH WONG BARNSTEAD | WKC
Generous pledges help progress of senior priest apartments initiative
BY VALERIA VESSELS, OFFICE OF STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT
The Diocese of Owensboro’s Faithful Foundations Campaign for the construction of new senior priest retirement apartments continues to move forward with tremendous generosity and gratitude from parishioners across western Kentucky. As of Oct. 20, pledges have reached $1,838,078.39, with an additional $925,954.09 committed through parish assessments.
This remarkable progress reflects the deep appreciation of our priests who have guided, supported, and prayed with our families through the many milestones of life: from baptisms and weddings to funerals and countless other celebrations of parish life.
“Our priests have given their lives in service to Christ and His people,” said Bishop William F. Medley. “These apartments are one small way we can give back – offering them a comfortable, faith-filled home as they continue to serve in new ways during their years ahead.”
The outpouring of support has come not only from parishioners but also from the priests themselves, who together have pledged nearly $150,000 toward the project. Their generosity is a powerful testament to their shared belief in the importance of caring for one another as a community of faith.
The diocese extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have pledged or contributed to the Faithful Foundations Campaign. Every gift, large or small, brings the project closer to reality and ensures that our retired priests will have a place to call home.
If you have not yet returned your pledge card, there is still time to participate in this effort. Your gift is a meaningful way to express appreciation to the priests who have served your family and parishes for generations.
Together, we are building more than apartments: we are building a legacy of faith, gratitude, and love for those who have dedicated their lives to the Church.
Valeria Vessels is the director of stewardship and development for the Diocese of Owensboro. Contact her at (270) 683-1545.
Originally printed in the November 2025 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.
