Dear Friends of Pope John Paul II Foundation,
I am honored to be asked to shepherd the Foundation for the next two years. I cannot begin this term without paying homage to my predecessor, Marianna Eckel. Her leadership of the Foundation occurred during the one of the most trying times in our nation’s history. Organizations ceased operating and, in many cases, ceased to exist, but not our Foundation. Marianna kept us together, focusing us on our mission and providing outreach wherever possible. Much appreciation for that.
As we begin this new administration, we will focus on strengthening our Legacy Program, our primary education/outreach vehicle, increasing membership and partnerships, and updating our by-laws. Tom Payne and his committee will continue to review and suggest updates to the by-laws and Cecilia Glembocki will continue to spearhead the Legacy Program. Both efforts take energy, dedication, and people to make them successful. Please step up to assist Tom and Ceil fulfill their committee mission.
My long association with the Friends began in 2005, when I arrived at the then Pope John Paul II Cultural Center as Deputy Director. I had the privilege of working with Pope John Paul II as the Vatican Museums’ representative in the United States and knew firsthand his interest in the arts as means to affect peace and understanding. His interests align perfectly with what this Foundation is dedicated to doing – bringing to light what is good and beautiful in the world around us.
I hope our presence at the Shrine of Saint John Paul II will help it realize its goals while becoming a showcase for our efforts on behalf of our dear John Paul II. To continue our tradition, the Foundation will once again decorate its Christmas Tree in the central corridor of the Shrine. This tradition ties together the Foundation’s Polish heritage, as well as the loving leadership of founding members like the Flanagans, Lanings, and Wiermanskis. This tradition is rich in memory and service. The decorating will occur the last week of November and will be coordinated by Marianna Eckel (kwsj2.wdc@gmail.com). Please let her know if you are able to assist. On December 8, the Shrine will have its annual candlelight evening, where all the trees will be displayed. I attended last year and know you will all enjoy this signature event on the Shrine’s calendar. I will reach out again about this, but please consider attending.
I thank those who selected me to head the Foundation and hope to promote its unique role in this area and beyond.
God bless you, Hugh M. Dempsey, GCMOb
