Submitted by Nancy Dowling.
Catholic churches in the area combined as All Saints, Holy Family and St. Rose bid farewell to Father Jim Keiter who shepherded the parishes for twelve years and will begin as pastor of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Omaha, effective January 1.
“Father Jim”, a native of Cedar County, has lent a great deal of time and energy into many endeavors focused on the mission of “uniting the heart, mind and actions of all to become Saints.”
During his years as pastor, Fr. Keiter has been a strong supporter of Catholic education at all age levels. He has encouraged the formation of small faith-sharing groups along with individual adoration times, known as “holy hours.” He has planned Christian music gatherings and parish missions to encourage each parishioner on their spiritual journey. He reached out to a broader congregation in a less conventional setting in monthly “Theology on Tap” sessions. In addition, he has led tour groups to the Holy Land and Christian historical sites throughout Europe and has led mission trips to serve the needs of the poor in parts of Mexico.
This short listing of some accomplishments is hardly adequate to describe the ways he has touched the lives of so many, whether through being with families and individuals as they marry, have a child baptized, welcome new members to the Church or say good-bye to beloved family member. Father Keiter will surely be missed as he begins his next assignment as pastor a few miles down the road. He requests the support of prayers as he begins this new chapter of his vocation as a Catholic Priest.