A Gathering to Give Thanks

Peace Ministries trustees and staff celebrated Mass together to honor one of its founding trustees. They were joined by ministry leaders, sisters and associates in the chapel at St. Michael Villa on November 16 to give thanks and gratitude to John Sheridan for his many years of service.

Maureen Donohue, CSJP-A, the executive director of Peace Ministries, gave welcoming remarks. She said there wasn’t a more fitting way to recognize John than to begin by celebrating the Eucharist together.

“The heart of the Eucharist is the washing of the feet, which calls us to deeper service of others. And we are each invited to that service—to go and do likewise,” Maureen said. “Therefore, self-giving is at the heart of the Eucharist.”

Father Emmett Gavin, O.Carm., who is a fellow trustee, celebrated the Mass. In his homily, he thanked John for his leadership, vision and Gospel values.

“To our great benefit, you were instrumental in shaping the first goals, priorities and initiatives of Peace Ministries and we thank you most sincerely,” Father Emmett said. “They have proven to be the correct path to follow in bringing our disparate ministries into a cohesive whole that meets many needs in today’s hurting world.”

All in attendance, including John’s wife, Kathy, and daughter Katie, joined Father Emmett in a blessing of John asking God to “grant him courage and vision, joy and hope, patience and wisdom in his next steps.”

A luncheon followed with grace led by Congregation Leader Sister Andrea Nenzel. Board chair Arleatha Williams gave remarks and others also shared fond memories of their times working alongside John for the mission of the sisters. To show appreciation, Peace Ministries gave John a peace lily, a framed word cloud and a commemorative plaque.

John began his involvement with the Congregation as a board member at Kenmare High School in 1991. He then served as a trustee of the CSJP Health Care System Corp. and, in 2014, John was appointed to the founding board of trustees of Peace Ministries, where he served as Chair until 2021 and remained on as a trustee until stepping down in September 2023.