October 31, 2006
Dear Friend of Malvern Retreat House:
Malvern, PA - Mr. James A. Fitzsimmons, President of Malvern Retreat House, St. Joseph's-in-the-Hills, Malvern, Pa. is proud to announce the appointment of Rev. Gregory J. Hickey, today as the eighth new Rector, effective January 3, 2007.
"I am thankful Cardinal Justin Rigali has agreed to the appointment of a diocesan priest to the position of Rector of our retreat house. There is such a shortage of priests today that it is, indeed, a blessing for the Cardinal to approve this appointment. I am grateful for the coordination of Msgr. Timothy C. Senior, Vicar for Clergy, for his timely and responsive attention to our search for a Rector. Malvern has been blessed with diocesan Rectors since our move to Malvern in 1922. These holy grounds have been a source of many religious vocations as well as lay members strengthening their faith and service to the larger community beyond Malvern. After a meeting with our Search Committee, chaired by William Walters, Secretary of the Board of Directors, the committee unanimously recommended Fr. Hickey to the full Board," said Fitzsimmons.
Father Hickey is a Chaplain and faculty member at Immaculata University, where he teaches courses in theology. He holds a Masters of Arts in Education from Villanova University, a Masters in Divinity from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Temple University. He is currently a doctoral candidate in education at St. Joseph's University. With extensive experience in education and psychology, Father Hickey was previously the President and former Principal of Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School, Director of Guidance at Roman Catholic High School, teacher and school minister at Bishop Conwell High School.
He is a member of the American Psychological Association and several other prestigious, professional organizations. He is a member of the Campus Ministry Team at Immaculata University, where he chaired the Catholicity/Spirituality Committee and has participated in Advisory, Development and Finance committees in the past.
Sister Patricia Fadden, President of Immaculata University shared, "He is a valued chaplain and theology instructor here. His loss will be felt, a real loss to Immaculata. He has a true interest in people, their needs, and concerns. He also has a deep understanding of people and is generous with his time and talents."
"I see this position as vibrant, challenging, rewarding and transforming. I am looking forward to working with the Malvern team, who are so dedicated to the retreat apostolate," said Father Hickey.
Jim Fitzsimmons shared, "We are glad to find an individual who loves ministry with youth and young adults, men and women. He has excellent teaching, administrative and pastoral care abilities. This will, certainly, assist him in his preaching and outreach to our retreatants. His academic background and pursuit of a doctoral degree in education demonstrates a discipline in research that will help us develop comprehensive programs for weekends, evenings and midweek."
Fr. Hickey was first introduced to Malvern Retreat House by his father in the eighth grade. He attended Malvern retreats for ten years before he entered St. Charles Seminary. His father was a member of the PECO group. "My parents were my role models. They showed me the value of a personal relationship with the Lord, hard work and the ability to work with people. My first time on retreat, I remember my father taking me to the Gold Door Oratory dedication ceremony with Cardinal O'Hara. This moment placed a seed of vocation which grew and matured to my ordination into the priesthood in 1979. If my dad were alive he would jump for joy knowing that I am the new Rector here. Malvern Retreat House is all that he talked about when he was alive. He would always say to me, 'I want to take you to a special place.' I know the value of a father asking a son to come on retreat. It's an important part of the traditions held here."
Working with the CA Captains, the Board of Directors, the Leadership team and the staff is a welcomed aspect of his new position. "My vision for the future is to integrate a variety of groups, the old and new cultures to create a new excitement about Malvern Retreat House. This is fertile ground for vocations. It's a quasi parish," said Fr. Hickey.
Fitzsimmons believes Fr. Hickey will be a valued contributor in advancing the mission and securing the future of the retreat house. "I am looking forward to working with father. He's an engaging person both personally and professionally. He will be a wonderful asset to our co-workers and retreatants."
Bill Walters, the chairman of the Search Committee and a current member of the Board of Directors shared in a telephone interview, "When I heard Father Hickey's homily before our luncheon interview, I was deeply moved. His homily touched the core of my soul. I knew we had the right man after our interview. This entire process has been gratifying and, it's obvious St. Joseph intervened in giving us Fr. Hickey."
In his spare time, Father Hickey enjoys time on the beach. "I also love the theatre and reading," said Fr. Hickey. He has great admiration for the late Archbishop Oscar Romero and 'the way he lived his life.' St. Theresa of Lisieux and St. Joseph represent two of his favorite intercessors in prayer. "God doesn't expect us to be perfect. But, He does expect us to do our best," said Fr. Hickey.
Raymond K. Walheim, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Laymen's League mirrored the sentiments of the entire Board of Directors by stating, "The role of a Rector is a critical piece to our retreat apostolate. Father Hickey, in his interview mentioned he is a integrator. It is our prayer that he will integrate the past, present and future of Malvern's retreatants in 'bringing more souls to Christ."
He is the son of Helen Hickey and the late Joseph Hickey, a 50-year retreatant with the PECO retreat group. He has four married sisters, all living in the area.
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