On Thursday, September 10, 2020 at 6:45 p.m. CST, Father John Cusick (Class of 1970) spoke on the topic: “Some dreams never leave, change somewhat – but never leave.” Although we were unable to meet in person, we enjoyed this time to connect with everyone virtually at this special event for those who attended Archbishop Quigley Preparatory Seminary, Niles Seminary College, Saint Joseph College Seminary and Mundelein Seminary.
Father John Cusick, a priest of the Archdiocese of Chicago, was ordained in 1970. He was Associate Pastor at Mary Seat of Wisdom Parish, Park Ridge, IL during 1970-1977. From 1977-1985, Father Cusick was a faculty member at Niles College Seminary. He taught Theology, was a Residence Hall Director, and Director of Recruitment and Admissions. He was the creator, coordinator, and director of Young Adult Ministry from 1977-2013. Crain’s Chicago Business named Father Cusick as one of seven clergy persons profiled as “preachers to seek out in Chicago.” In February 2012, he received the Blessed John XXIII Award from the Association of Chicago Priests for “excellence in priestly ministry and significant contributions to the life of the Church in Chicago.” He was a speaker at the 50th International Eucharistic Congress held in Dublin, Ireland during June 2012. In June 2014, he received The Spirit of the Conference Award for Service on Behalf of Lay Ministry from the National Association of Lay Ministry (NALM). In 2015, he received the annual award for his contributions to Harmony, Hope, and Healing, the musical wing of a shelter for homeless women in Chicago, IL. Father Cusick was the 2017 recipient of the Gratiam Dei Award conferred by the American Catholic Press. He published his first book, “Never Be Ordinary” in December 2018. He resided at Old St. Patrick’s Church from 1985 -2014, where he continues to preside and preach at Sunday Mass. On July 1, 2014, he retired from the active Priesthood.
