“On behalf of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary, it is with great sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of Father Ron Lewinski, Mundelein Ordination Class of 1972. As our “As Those Who Serve” honoree at this spring’s Celebration of Mundelein, he challenged us all with his inspired words: ‘We need imaginative priests and parishioners. We need risk takers. We need priests and laity with a passion for mission.’ An exemplary model of a parish priest, Fr. Ron never shirked tackling new projects and improving life for others. In many ways he was also a servant to the entire Archdiocese and the universal Church, most recently through his leadership with the Renew My Church program. I will always be grateful for the quiet mentoring and spiritual direction he provided to countless men in their vocational discernment. In memory of Fr. Ron, we at Mundelein Seminary will take his words to heart and recommit to our passion for the mission of forming parish priests. We offer our prayers and condolences to his family and friends.”
— Father John Kartje, Rector/President
Father Lewinski, Mundelein ordination class of 1972, was the Co-Director of the Department of Parish Vitality and Mission. Fr. Lewinski was well known for his expertise in liturgy, the RCIA and parish life. Before joining the Department of Parish Vitality and Mission, he was Pastor of St. Mary of the Annunciation Parish in Mundelein.
We recently honored Father Lewinski as the 2017 As Those Who Serve award recipient at our 2017 Celebration of Mundelein. He was surrounded by family, fellow priests, and parishioners-turned-friends who appreciated his leadership and love as a pastor. He introduced the Parish Transformation initiative, built a new church and pastoral center for Saint Mary of the Annunciation Parish in Mundelein, growing the parish from 200 to 1,600 members, and continued to be a leader in parish engagement and revitalization.
“Allow yourselves to be surprised,” Father Lewinski said to the seminarians in attendance, ” You’ve responded to the priesthood, but God will deliver you to the shores of your mission. Nearly all of my most meaningful experiences were things I didn’t initiate, but they bore fruits beyond my prediction.”
As we remember Father Lewinski for his good priestly life, let us also remember to pray for his soul. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Services for Fr. Ronald Lewinski:
St. Mary of the Annunciation, 22333 W Erhart Rd, Mundelein, IL 60060
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
2:00 p.m. Vigil for the Deceased with Reception of the Body
2:00 – 9:00 p.m. Lying in State
Wednesday, July 26, 2017
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Lying in State
11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial
Interment to follow at St. Mary of the Annunciation Parish Cemetery
We need imaginative priests and parishioners. We need risk takers. We need priests and laity with a passion for mission.
Father Ron Lewinski receives the 2017 As Those Who Serve Award from Cardinal Blase Cupich and Father John Kartje
Video from the 2017 Celebration of Mundelein honoring Father Ron Lewinski and Dick & Maryjeanne Burke
