Gathered Together in Faith

May 11, 2026

Catholic Foundation Legacy Society members and donors were honored at a recent gathering that also included board members, staff, and friends of the Foundation. The evening began with a prayer service led by Legacy Society member, Bishop Lawrence Persico, along with Foundation leaders Joe Kloecker, investment committee member, Mike Bova, board vice chair, and Bob Crowley, board member.

Ken Kane, board chair, then welcomed the guests to begin a short program, before introducing Lisa Louis, executive director. Lisa thanked the board, committee volunteers, and staff before sharing progress by the Foundation since the last event. In the first few months of 2026, over $1 million was raised and invested and seven new funds established. She also shared stories of how two recent donors approached the Catholic Foundation to direct their charitable giving in unique ways. “These examples, and even tonight’s gathering, call into action Catholic fellowship,” she said. “What we are as a Catholic community is unique and special. It’s both ancient and forward-looking, practical yet practiced in our surrendered hope. And we all know it extends far beyond this ballroom.”

Following her comments Lisa introduced a short video made available to the Foundation through its participation in the Consortium of Catholic Foundations from around the country. The video captures the spirit of the common mission of Catholic foundations, and is available to view here.

Lisa also welcomed our newest Legacy Society members:

Anonymous
Susan Cook
Carmen Bevacqua
The Reverend Thomas Brown
Joan Fels
Diane Horneman

Catholic Foundation Legacy Society members are those who have committed to providing for the future of our shared Catholic community with an estate gift or by establishing an endowment fund. These faithful gifts from the heart will provide financial support to the Catholic ministries they love for generations. View full list of members.

To close the program, Lisa invited Father Nick Rouch, vicar general, to give an update on the episcopal transition. “I have no news,” Father Rouch joked before providing an explanation of the ongoing process as Pope Leo and others pray and discern to determine who will be the next Bishop of the Diocese of Erie.

Photos by Eric Smyklo.