Bishop Kaffer honored with University of St. Francis award
"What
on Earth are You Doing for Heaven’s Sake?"
Bishop Roger L. Kaffer passes out cards with this
message to inspire those he encounters, but more
importantly it is his private motto, one he lives
daily as he strives for personal holiness and
works to strengthen the spirituality of others,
particularly young people.
Kaffer,
retired auxiliary bishop of the Diocese of Joliet,
is the first recipient of the Spirit of Saints
Francis and Clare Award, given by the University
of St. Francis to honor its patron saints. The
award was presented at May 10 commencement ceremonies
at which Kaffer also served as keynote speaker.
The award was presented by Sister Mary Francis
Seeley, O.S.F., a member of USF’s Board of
Trustees, and Michael Vinciguerra, USF president.
The
award is given annually to one who exemplifies
the belief that knowledge may never be separated
from truth and holiness; a conviction that all
creation can lead to the Creator; and the "Grace
of Franciscan" hospitality for all peoples.
Recipients are chosen from the Illinois Catholic
dioceses.
Bishop
Roger L. Kaffer was ordained a priest in 1954,
and assigned to the Joliet Chancery Office (1954-65).
He was founding rector of St. Charles Borromeo
Seminary (1965-70), principal of Providence High
School (1970-85) and rector of the Cathedral of
St. Raymond, Joliet, Illinois (1985). He served
at five different parishes as part-time or weekend
associate.
He
is the product of Catholic elementary schools,
and holds two master’s degrees, in Arts and
Education, along with Licentiates in Theology
and Canon Law and a doctorate in Ministry.
He
was ordained Auxiliary Bishop of Joliet in 1985
and made Vicar General. Later that same year,
he was named Vicar for Priests.
Bishop
Kaffer has done work as a parish priest, Chancery
official, seminary rector, retreat director, high
school principal, Cathedral rector and Diocesan
Vicar General. His varied career has been rooted
in helping others find greater spirituality and
holiness through education.
The
University of St. Francis has also nominated Bishop
Kaffer for the prestigious Elizabeth Ann Seton
Award given by the National Catholic Educational
Association.