Men Chosen by The Holy Spirit?
A heartfelt thank you to Kevin Gralen who, after six years on the CFO Board and five years as president, is leaving us. Kevin brought a special spirituality to the board with his ultimate example of living the Gospel – service to others. In his words: In one of the impoverished areas of the world, the services of the Mission deliver hope and faith that are unexplainable and inspirational. During his tenure, Kevin’s accomplishments are many but perhaps the “jewel in his crown” is the planning and development of the Denise Nagel Youth Center. He, almost single handedly, raised start up and three years operational funds for this needed program. He also modernized our digital capabilities allowing our message to reach more sisters and brothers. His humor energized us and built a strong spirit of camaraderie amongst board members.
Replacing Kevin is Francisco Lopez. Some of you know him from the pilgrimages to Guaymas that he led with George Sabol. Francisco tells us: The genuine exchange of love, gratitude and joy that I’ve experienced while visiting Guaymas has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to follow the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi. I knew instantly that I was called to support this Mission.
The Holy Spirit continues to bless the Casa Franciscana Outreach family by sending us two very special people to carry out the Mission’s works. Both Kevin and Francisco would like to thank you for your support toward their vision of improving the lot of the destitute in Guaymas, MX.
Thank you Kevin for your years of service to our brothers and sisters. God will bless you for your generosity of time and talent and commitment to the least of his children.
Thank you Francisco for taking on this important mission.
Congratulations, Francisco! I had the personal and spiritual pleasure of participating in a pilgrimage to Guaymas a number of years ago. I was so moved and inspired by your love and empathy in action for the people of Guaymas, the Franciscans at the Mission and all the workers at the Casa, and yes, for us pilgrims. What stands out for me most is the images I still carry with me of you, sitting at the bedside of elderly, dying persons praying with them, with all of us – and simultaneously translating our thoughts and prayers to them and from them to us. And now, you direct your commitment and dedication to the people of Guaymas and the holy work of the Franciscans onto the important work of the CFO Board. Once again – congratulations and thank you for living your Faith in Action. You make a difference!
Thank you for the 11 years of leadership, Kevin, and I pray there will be more years of service. Currently I am at Casa Franciscana Guaymas for a summer of service before continuing studies at the Franciscan School of Theology affiliated with the University of San Diego. It has been a beautiful experience so far and I look forward to meeting friends of CFO when I am in Arizona, or better yet, down here in Guaymas! Peace and Good