NASPA Welcomes New Board Members at the Annual Business Meeting

NASPA Convention Attendees pose for a group photo at the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City September 16, 2025

New Faces on the Board

At the NASPA Annual Business Meeting on September 17th, the board welcomed three new members. Fr. Christopher Iwancio, OFM Cap, president of Modern Catholic Pilgrim, Julia Attaway, executive director of St. Frances Cabrini Shrine in New York City, and Fr. John Kettelberger, CM, rector of the Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Philadelphia, were nominated and elected as Members at Large.

During the meeting, Vice President John Paul Lichon chose not to renew his term. Consequently, the Vice-President office will remain vacant for the time being.

"We thank John Paul for his hard work and dedication to NASPA’s mission. We wish him success in his role as an international pilgrimage coordinator," said NASPA President Carol Bezak. "We look forward to collaborating with the new members to advance the mission of shrines and pilgrimage in the U.S."

The Importance of Leadership in NASPA

The NASPA Board is always on the lookout for dedicated leaders. The board meets virtually every third Wednesday at 3 PM Eastern Time and in person as needed. Each office's duties are outlined in the NASPA by-laws.

If you are interested in serving on the NASPA board, please email our President Carol Bezak at cbezak@carmelites.com.

Why Leadership Matters

Leadership is crucial in any organization. It sets the tone and direction for the entire group. Effective leaders inspire others and foster collaboration. They help to create a vision that aligns with the organization's mission. In the case of NASPA, strong leadership is essential for promoting the mission of shrines and pilgrimage.

The Role of New Members

The new members bring fresh perspectives and experiences to the board. Fr. Christopher Iwancio, with his background in modern Catholic pilgrimage, will contribute valuable insights. Julia Attaway's experience at the St. Frances Cabrini Shrine will enhance the board's understanding of urban pilgrimage. Fr. Jack Kettelberger's role at the Basilica Shrine will provide a unique viewpoint on community engagement.

Building a Stronger Community

The NASPA Board aims to strengthen the community of shrines across the United States. By working together, they can share resources, ideas, and best practices. This collaboration will help to enhance the pilgrimage experience for all involved.

Future Goals and Initiatives

Looking ahead, the NASPA Board has several goals. They plan to increase outreach efforts to engage more individuals in pilgrimage activities. Additionally, they aim to develop educational programs that highlight the significance of shrines. These initiatives will help to raise awareness and appreciation for the rich history of pilgrimage in the U.S.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the NASPA Annual Business Meeting marked a significant moment for the organization. The addition of new board members brings hope and excitement for the future. With strong leadership and a commitment to collaboration, NASPA is poised to make a lasting impact on the pilgrimage community.

If you are interested in becoming part of this dynamic organization, consider reaching out to the NASPA Board. Your involvement could help shape the future of pilgrimage in the United States.