Meet Deacon Candidate Fred Sommer

Fred Jr., Bob, Jim, Virginia, and Fred Sommer, Sr.

Cathedral Chimes, May 1973

Fred J. Sommer, Candidate for deacon from Cathedral, who will be ordained here June 24,
1973, is shown here with his wife, Virginia, and their three sons, Fred Jr., Robert and James. The Sommers also have three daughters, Susan, Cisily, and Patricia, who are married and away from home. Fred and Virginia reside at 4117 Lafayette and have been members of St. Cecilia's for over 20 years.

Fred had this to say about his candidacy: "I heard about the deacon program a couple of years ago. when the Omaha program was being formulated, I discussed it with Father Pat McCaslin, who is the director. 'Service' to people seemed to be a major part of the Deaconate program and this interested me most. I also wanted to learn more about a true Christian response to the spiritual needs of people."

"During the past two years I feel I have gained a deeper insight into the Gospels and teachings of Jesus - what they mean in my life and in the life of my family. I have also learned more about prayer, especially spontaneous prayer."

"Since the deacon training course included our wives for many of the sessions, Gin and I have grown together as Christians and as husband and wife. I hope to be able to share this Christian experience with as many people as I can."

"It is a great responsibility we men are assuming, and we humbly ask for your prayers that we will be able to serve to the best of our ability."