In recognition of his educational achievements, leadership skills and “sincere heart to serve,” Gerald Streff was named this year’s “outstanding graduate” in Chaminade University’s Master of Pastoral Theology program.
Streff and five others graduated this spring from the program which offers specialized certificate programs in pastoral counseling, spiritual direction and permanent diaconate education.
Streff, who retired in 2012 after a 39-year career with the U.S. Air Force, will use his academic training to launch an end-of-life spiritual care volunteer program at St. Jude Parish in Kapolei. His initiative addresses growing concerns about caring for seniors in Hawaii, which has one of the highest percentages of elderly residents in America.
“Gary’s academic acumen, his generous desire both to help develop an end-of-life ministry program for the people of his parish, and to serve emerging concerns of the larger professional health care community of Hawaii have more than qualified him for the graduate award,” said Marianist Father Paul Fitzpatrick, director of the pastoral program.
Streff said Father Fitzpatrick’s mentorship, friendship and method of teaching “opened me up to God in a way that no one else has ever done.”
“It was Father Paul’s constant challenges that made the Bible and other sacred writings come alive and relevant,” said Streff. “His personal dedication to God, the Catholic Church and the fulfillment of his Marian mission were very inspirational.”
Streff said that he “thoroughly enjoyed his military career and its challenges,” but now he’s finding pastoral work “much more fulfilling and definitely worth it.”