Stephen Bowling, also in the Class of 1983, is the Director of Family Ministries for the Archdiocese. He is responsible for marriage enrichment and preparation, partnering with ministries such as Engaged Encounter and Retrouvaille. In addition, he oversees the Safe Environment Program, Pro-Life work, Pastoral Care, and Counseling and Victim Assistance. On top of all this, Bowling is a deacon assigned to St. Gabriel, the largest parish in the Archdiocese of Louisville. Of his many ministries, Bowling enjoys working with engaged couples the most, “Our program provides well over 400 couples a year some good, solid, and relevant preparation for making the biggest decision of their lives: getting married.”
Connie Rogers Duplessis, Class of 1985, is Secretary to Archbishop Kurtz. After raising five children, Duplessis knew she wanted to work to build the Church, and this is “what God had in mind.” As Secretary, Duplessis arranges meetings and coordinates calendar events. She assists with the Mass schedule at the Cathedral of the Assumption and Holy Family and coordinates the yearly Confirmation schedule for all of the parishes. Duplessis says of her work, “I try to remember that I represent the Archbishop and may be the first face or voice someone encounters when they reach out. I hope to always make that experience a positive one.”
Molly Keene Smith, again from the class of 1983, (Many graduates might be quick to point out that Bishop Mark Spalding is also from that class) is the Director of the Office of Mission Advancement. Her position provides support to Archdiocesan parishes, schools, and agencies by “promoting a theology of abundance and gratitude to God, the source of all our blessings.” The Mission Advancement Office offers training and materials for stewardship discernment, planned giving, capital campaigns, and parish-level fundraising, as well as coordinating the annual Catholic Services Appeal, which provides funding for over 100 ministries and services throughout the Archdiocese. Smith’s preparation for the position included working in a Catholic elementary school, a Catholic high school (Director of Admissions for Bethlehem), and a Catholic college. “Working for the church and helping to make all of the outreach that is funded by the Appeal possible is a real privilege. What we are doing makes such a difference in so many lives.”
All of the alumni admit that, while in high school, they could not have envisioned where they are now, but they can all look back and see how God worked in their lives to lead them to the Pastoral Center. Guthrie’s advice to current high school students: “We are each called to our own spiritual journey. Be open to God’s presence; seek His guidance; trust His invitation, and follow the path He offers. You won’t be disappointed with where it takes you!”
