Rev. John F. Jirak, J.C.L.

Pastor

Priest Residence
401 S. Roosevelt - Wichita, Kansas 67218 
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I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to serve the people of Blessed Sacrament Parish in the fatherly role of pastor. Eight years ago I was assigned by Bishop Thomas Olmsted to serve as Associate Pastor of Blessed Sacrament under the revered Monsignor Johnny Gilsenan. I felt blessed then and consider myself very fortunate now to return to serve this vibrant parish.

Since it has been six years since serving at Blessed Sacrament and many new parishioners have joined the parish, it might be helpful to give you a bit of background information about your new pastor. I am a rural farmboy - a meat and potatoes kind of guy (hint, hint!). I attended a small 1A high school (Centre High School) after which I attended Fort Hays State University receiving a degree in agribusiness. Within less than one year after graduating from Fort Hays State, I entered the seminary for the Diocese of Wichita. I attended Conception Seminary College for the philosophy portion of seminary training and The Pontifical College Josephinum for theological studies.

I was ordained a priest in 2002 and served two years as Associate Pastor here at Blessed Sacrament. In 2004, I moved to nearby Cathedral Parish where I served for three years as Associate Pastor under Fr. John Sherlock. Yes, five years under the leadership of Irish pastors (good thing that I like potatoes)! Four of my first five years of priesthood were also taken up with a chaplaincy at Wesley Medical Center. Th e past three years I have spent in Washington, D.C.

, pursuing a degree in canon law. I received my J.C.L. this past May and here I am at Blessed Sacrament in June!