Just like Klock Work

We are grateful for our many supporters whose generosity and partnership make it possible for us to fulfill our mission to form a Church that consecrates the world to God, according to the heart of Christ through the Holy Spirit, and our vision to form priests, deacons, and the laity for parish leadership, ministry, and evangelization – adhering to timeless Truth while adapting to constant change. Your prayers and gifts, no matter the amount, have been instrumental to our ability to fulfill our mission and vision.

Larry and Cheri Klock have been friends and financial supporters of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary for the last 24 years. And just like Merriam-Webster’s definition of “Clock Work” they have been instrumental in the inner workings of our beloved university and seminary. 

In February of this year, Cheri and Larry generously hosted a reception at the Grey Oaks Country Club in Naples for 24 old and new friends who welcomed Father John Karte and heard about his vision for the future of USML and Mundelein Seminary. They are very proud of their son, Sean, who currently serves on the board of advisors and has been a force in his leadership of the annual Rector’s Classic Golf Outing, a major fundraiser for Mundelein Seminary.

“Larry and Cheri Klock have been long-time dedicated supporters of the Seminary. Their generosity, thoughtfulness, and commitment to future priests is much appreciated.”

– Brian Schmisek, Ph.D., Provost, Vice President for Development and Marketing Office of Academic Affairs

You recently hosted a wonderful gathering of University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary. What was that like and what motivated you to host the reception?

RESPONSE: We had an opportunity to welcome Father Kartje to warm and sunny Naples, Florida, where he shared insights on new initiatives at USML to a group of 24 current and potential USML advocates.

How did you first connect with University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary?

RESPONSE: Almost 30 years ago, Father Hennessey offered Cheri and a dear friend his time and wisdom. This provided spiritual guidance to develop and lead Bible study at the Church of St. Mary in Lake Forest, Illinois.

What motivates your generosity to University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary?

LARRY: A combination of things. The Church needs to combat and recover from the rise of secularism along with self-inflicted scandals, which have damaged its credibility. Creating new priests who embrace the teachings of Christ will provide the foundation needed in the 21st century. This cannot happen overnight, and offering our time, talent, and treasure on a sustained basis is essential if USML is to succeed.

CHERI: Mundelein is a vibrant community of men discerning their call to the priesthood. One can feel the power of the Holy Spirit moving over these young men, which gives me inspiration and hope for the future. It is essential that we have holy and well-formed priests so we have future generations of faith. I am motivated by a quote of St. Theresa of Avila, who said, “If I were to meet a priest and an angel, I would salute the priest before the angel. The latter is the friend of God, but the priest stands in his place.  I kiss the ground where a priest has passed.” Can you imagine how sacred the grounds of Mundelein Seminary are?

Why is it important that others support University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary?

RESPONSE: Having the ability to accomplish USML’s mission will require financial support from a wide range of sources. Donors should realize that they are also part owners of the seminary and responsible for its care in order to continue its success.