Reverend Jack Wall Becomes New Archdiocesan Chaplain

Reverend Jack Wall Becomes New Archdiocesan Chaplain

By Gina Demke

In spring 2008,  His Eminence Francis Cardinal George appointed Fr. Jack Wall as the new Illinois Patrons Archdiocesan Chaplain.  He replaced Fr. C. Frank Phillips, who graciously served the Chapter for four years.  A native Chicagoan, Fr. Wall is the current President of the Catholic Church Extension Society, a national organization which conducts missionary outreach to remote or poor regions of the country.  Prior to his present position, Fr. Wall served as pastor of Old St. Patrick's Church, the second parish founded in the city of Chicago.  Starting in 1983, Fr. Wall completely revitalized this West Loop Church.  First mass attendance grew exponentially from 25 people to more than 2000 people during his tenure.  Fr. Wall also spearheaded a number of outreach efforts and programs to inspire and educate the Catholic communities in Chicago.  In March 2007, the Holy See appointed Father Wall as President of the Catholic Church Extension Society.

"A true church experience opens people to the work of God in them. We encounter God when we are open to each other and see His transforming power. Those who reach out to those in need know that good work that can be accomplished by letting God work through them - and it can be accomplished everywhere."

 - Rev. John J. Wall, President, Catholic Extension

The Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums