John Pritchett
Christian Faith Formation, Catholic Scripture Study, Knights of Columbus
Parishioner since summer 2004
Political Campaign Consultant
- In what ministries have you been involved with in the past?
Growing up in the Fort Worth parish of Saint Patrick Cathedral, I attended CCD from preschool to 12th grade and served as an altar boy from the fourth grade through the 12th grade.
Here at Saint Mary Cathedral I teach fifth grade catechism with Cathy Johnson, participate in Catholic Scripture Study, and last year I served on Nock Russell’s Parish Advisory Team during his pastoral year of seminary formation. I am also deputy grand knight of the Knights of Columbus Capital City Council 1017.
- What is your favorite thing about volunteering at the Cathedral?
My favorite thing about volunteering at Saint Mary Cathedral is that doing so allows me to answer our Lord’s call to teach His word. Teaching gives me the chance to share the faith with others, and it also challenges me to learn more about Christ and His Church.
- What do you get out of it?
My faith has increased and I have learned more about the sacraments, tradition and scripture than I ever would have had I not volunteered.
- What has been one of your most rewarding experiences as a Cathedral volunteer? A very rewarding part of teaching at the Cathedral is sharing with students the wonder of the sacraments Jesus gave us. Seeing a student in quiet prayer approach the altar for Communion or another in line to receive Christ’s forgiveness in Reconciliation I can see the fruits of my labor, and I can only thank God for giving me the opportunity to answer His call.
- Why does volunteering matter?
To paraphrase Pope Benedict XVI, we are in the business of saving souls so we may serve God in this life and live with Him forever in the next. The Church is more than a pleasant balm for a harsh world or a well-meaning philosophy that answers tough questions; Christ gave us His Church so our souls may be saved. So why does volunteering matter? It enables us to cooperate with God’s grace, hope for our salvation and help others do the same.
- What are your other interests?
In my free time I enjoy reading, and I grew up on a ranch so I also enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, bird hunting and canoeing. This last Christmas I received a smoker, so I am now learning the patient art of slow cooking delicious Texas meats.
- What advice would you give to a parishioner new to volunteering?
To a parishioner new to volunteering, or one considering it, I offer encouragement to stick to it and be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Create time for prayer and the frequent reception of the sacraments, and you will find that God has given you gifts you were not aware of and He will act through you to change the world.