Welcome Jeff Kacala, Director of Youth Ministry

“Young people today have an influence on the world. Our job is to help them use that influence for Christ,” said Jeff Kacala, who has joined the St. Mary staff as Director of Youth Ministry. Jeff grew up in Milwaukee – St. Barbara’s was his home parish – and brings 15 years of parish ministry to his new role here. Previously he served at St. Katharine Drexel in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, where he served first as Youth Minister, and then as Director of Catholic Formation.

Jeff’s career includes 30 years in the bowling industry. One evening his wife couldn’t take their children to their faith formation class and asked Jeff to step in. A nun who was leading the class made an impassioned plea for adult catechists. It was that simple call that started Jeff on the path to full-time ministry. He enrolled in the Diocese of Green Bay ministerial formation program while continuing to work full time and attend college. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Silver Lake College of the Holy Family in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and has completed three of the five years of Diaconate Formation. He also serves as an Adjunct Program Director for Just5days service trips during the summer.

He and his wife Laura have been married for 34 years. They had been discerning a decision to return to the Milwaukee area where their four adult children live and to being close to Laura's parents as they continue to age. They made the decision in February, sold their house and relocated to Greenfield.

A chance visit from a friend alerted him to the job opening here.

“Ministry is not a job,” Jeff said. “For the right fit, your philosophy and that of the organization you join have to mesh.” After talking with Fr. Brian, Jeff knew immediately that he could thrive here. “Fr. Brian is so passionate about this faith community,” he said. Jeff is equally passionate. When you meet him you can’t help but notice his enthusiasm and energy.

Jeff was aware of St. Mary’s commitment to social justice and outreach and that also attracted him to apply for the job. “If we are not serving, we are not disciples,” he said.

Onboard since early July, Jeff is already immersed in his role. He wants to help the community better understand that young people are already in a relationship with Christ. “I want the parish to know about our amazing youth,” he said. He is talking with parents and plans to double the number of opportunities for youth to grow their relationship with Christ.