On January 6, 2026 Fr. Anthony Shonis tours the grounds with Bill Blincoe, project manager, of the site where the Roncolli Home is under construction. COURTESY OF BILL BLINCOE
A Visible Sign of Gratitude for Years to Come
Announcing the Roncalli Home for Priests
BY VALERIA VESSELS
The Diocese of Owensboro is honored to announce the official name of its new senior priest apartments: the Roncalli Home for Priests. This name, chosen by Bishop William F. Medley and recently shared with the Priests’ Council, carries both historical and spiritual significance for our diocesan family. The name “Roncalli” comes from the family name of Pope St. John XXIII – a beloved shepherd of the Church remembered for his warmth, humility and his genuine love for the priesthood. He convened the Second Vatican Council, calling the Church to renewal while remaining rooted in Christ’s mission.
In a further tribute, the chapel within the first residence will be named the Saint John XXIII Chapel, providing a sacred space for prayer, reflection, and continued devotion for our senior priest. As additional buildings are added in the future, each chapel will carry its own unique name, further enriching the spiritual life of this growing community.
The Roncalli Home for Priests stands as more than a residence: it is a visible sign of gratitude for the faithful service of our priests who have devoted their lives to the people of western Kentucky. After years of celebrating the sacraments, guiding parish communities, and walking with families through life’s joys and sorrows, this home offers them dignity, comfort, and community in their senior years.
This milestone would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of our donors, the dedication of our committees, and the many individuals who have worked tirelessly over the years to bring this vision to life. From early planning conversations to construction progress, countless hands and hearts have contributed to this moment. We are deeply grateful to each person who believed in this mission and helped make it a reality. The home is bricked, under roof and continuing the interior work.
As we look ahead, the Roncalli Home for Priests will stand as a lasting testament to faith, stewardship, and love for those who have served so faithfully. It is a blessing for our diocese today and for generations to come.
Valeria Vessels is the Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation of Western Kentucky and the director of the Office of Stewardship and Development in the Diocese of Owensboro. She may be reached at [email protected].
Learn more here.
On May 12, 2026, progress is seen on the future Roncalli Home for Priests in Owensboro, Ky. COURTESY OF BILL BLINCOE
Originally printed in the Diocese of Owensboro’s 2025-2026 impact report in June 2026.
