“Actions speak louder than words.”
This phrase comes to mind when I think about the afternoon I spent with Bishop-elect John Keehner, who graciously set aside a couple hours of his time to interview with me for the feature story on page 15. He came down from Ashtabula to the diocesan offices that day to have his official headshots taken. At this point in time, I’d say I knew of him, but I did not know him. He made an immediate impression on me—with his warm smile and friendly demeanor—but it was the “breaks” we experienced during the interview that gave me the sense that his persona is genuine.
First, as we started settling in, Bishop-elect Keehner glanced over his shoulder and noticed the photographer who had taken his headshots, Joe Rudinec, gathering his equipment. “Hey, do you need some help?” he asked. And Rudinec gratefully accepted. So, the three of us—Bishop-elect chattering cheerfully the entire time—took the equipment out to his vehicle in just two trips.
Maybe 30 minutes later, Monsignor Robert Siffrin—diocesan vicar of external affairs and rector at St. Columba Cathedral—came down to collect the crozier used in the photo shoot. “Monsignor, I cannot thank you enough for your help today,” Bishop-elect said emphatically. “I could not have even figured out what to wear without you!” Monsignor smiled and quipped about learning a thing or two as rector of the cathedral—a job which the Bishop-elect also held for several years.
Finally, Bishop-elect Keehner’s friends from the Tribunal office stopped in. The conversation ran the gamut from congratulatory exclamations, to catching up on family events, to reminiscing about their time together. As they made their way to the exit, one cried, “We’re going to miss you! Pack a coat!” “Or two!” the other added.
These exchanges tell me several things. If Bishop-elect Keehner sees someone in need, he’s willing to lend a hand. He is gracious and humble. He forms meaningful relationships with his people, and he is truly loved. The sentiment, “The Diocese of Sioux City is so lucky,” is one that I heard often while interviewing his friends and family for this issue, and you know what? I think they may be right.
In this special issue of The Catholic Echo, you’ll learn about the Diocese of Sioux City and, of course, you’ll learn about the Bishop-elect. If you didn’t know him before now, I hope this issue gives you a sense of who he is and fills you with pride at the idea that our diocese has produced such an exemplary shepherd.
So, Bishop-elect John Keehner, on behalf of the Diocese of Youngstown, the Catholic Echo staff and its readers, we extend our hearty congratulations, and we wish you the best as you embark on this journey. God bless you!
Until next time,
Katie Wagner
