The Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine, a beacon of faith and community, owes its success to the dedication and passion of its volunteers. Since its inception, volunteers have been the linchpin of the shrine’s operations, embodying the spirit and mission of Blessed Stanley Rother. Looking back on the shrine's growth in its first year and beyond, it’s essential to express gratitude to those who have given their time, skills and energy to make it thrive.
Acknowledging the efforts The shrine's everyday functioning is a testament to the contributions of its volunteers. From guiding tours and managing the gift shop to assisting with daily Mass, the volunteers' commitment has been pivotal. The diversity of roles they undertake ensures that the shrine remains a vibrant and welcoming place for all who visit. Their dedication allows the shrine to fulfill its mission of evangelization and community service.
Spotlights Chad GoodmanChad Goodman
Chad Goodman has been a cornerstone of the shrine project from its early days. While his initial acquaintance with Blessed Stanley Rother began during his high school and college years, Goodman’s deep connection to Blessed Stanley was solidified during the beatification in 2017. Goodman said he particularly admires Blessed Stanley’s unwavering devotion to God and the Guatemalan people. “He wasn’t just their priest’ he was one of them,” Goodman said. “That was his life. “I admire that he actually listened to God’s calling in his life and followed it, something that I want to emulate more myself.”
Lisa McLaughlin, Ph.D. Lisa and Steve McLaughlin
Lisa McLaughlin, Ph.D., is another shining example of the spirit of volunteerism that characterizes the shrine. McLaughlin wears many hats, serving as a tour guide, receptionist and various other roles. For her, volunteering at the shrine is a deeply enriching experience.
“The faces of the body of Christ are so diverse,” she said. “People come here knowing little or nothing or a lot about Blessed Stanley, but they leave inspired by his witness to the faith.” McLaughlin said she finds her interactions with visitors fulfilling.
“I gain more from them than I could ever hope to give back,” she said.
Her personal connection to the shrine is also profound, as a family friend played a role in her own faith journey, creating a deep bond with the mission and legacy of Blessed Stanley.
Call to action
As the shrine approaches the busy summer and fall seasons, there continues to be a need for additional volunteers to join this devoted community. The need is especially great for roles in guiding tours, managing the gift shop, assisting at the front desk and supporting daily Mass in various capacities such as lectors, ushers, Eucharistic Ministers, sacristans and altar servers. Volunteering at the shrine is not only a way to give back but also an opportunity to be part of a community that is passionate about faith and service.
Many thanks To all the shrine volunteers, the Catholic community in Oklahoma owes its deepest gratitude. Their contributions are foundational to the shrine’s mission and success. As the community moves forward, new volunteers are welcomed to join in this rewarding journey. Together, this shared mission continues to build a community inspired by the example of Blessed Stanley Rother, dedicated to faith, service and the rich legacy they are privileged to uphold.
Photo: (Above) Volunteers Molly Bernard, Irene Haefele, Richard Bernard and Ray Haefele. Photos provided.
The success of the Bl. Stanley Rother Shrine greatly depends on volunteers who are willing to contribute their time, skills, enthusiasm and passion to evangelize in a way similar to Bl. Stanley Rother. Volunteers are needed in a variety of capacities. Visit rothershrine.org/volunteer.