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REMEMBERING
Michael McKenna
from Janet Hauter, VOTF Chicago
On Friday, December 8th, here in Chicago, a senseless
act of violence occurred that will forever leave
its imprint on members of VOTF. Michael McKenna,
a patent attorney and leader of our downtown affiliate,
was the intended victim of a gunman who took hostages
in the Ogilvy Building in downtown Chicago. Apparently
the shooter was disillusioned about a patent issue,
yet he didn't even know Michael and had to ask who
and where he was. Michael was shot in the head.
A more compassionate, kind and "centered" individual
one could not meet. He was very active in his parish
and committed to VOTF. Despite the pain he felt
about how our institutional Church was governed,
Michael knew all too well that we needed to maintain
a "cold anger" to quiet our rage in order
to know with certitude when the Spirit was calling
us to action. Michael spoke softly but his statements
were always targeted at change. He skillfully reasoned
his way to plans we were engaged in and always,
always, always Michael's was the prophetic, calm,
deliberate voice that helped us focus on root causes.
Michael will be dearly missed. He leaves behind
a wife and a two-year old.
Michael had a personal stake in VOTF and saw us
as the force needed to save our Church from itself.
He made every meeting he could when he was in town.
We salute you, Michael, for your calm, your voice
and your spirit. Your mission is now to change
hearts!
Please pray for the McKenna family and hold them
close as the birth of the Christ Child opens up
for us a new era. Michael, we need you now more
than ever!
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