Father Louis Stasker,
A Priest of Integrity
Submitted by Svea Fraser
In 2002, Fr. Lou responded positively to the request by the new affiliate of VOTF to support its formation. He welcomed the opportunity and opened the doors for meetings and speakers. Some of those speakers included: Gaile Pohlhaus, Fr. Richard McBrien, Fr. Francis Sullivan, SJ., Eugene Kennedy, Fr. Thomas Doyle, OP, Fr. Donald Cozzens as well as himself. He often hosted those from out of town in his own home.
Fr. Lou is noted for his compassion and prayerfulness. In reaching out to survivors of abuse, he has been able to help heal some of the indelible wounds from childhood. His sensitivity to survivor issues is due in no small part to the fact that he has an adopted son who was abused by both of his biological parents.
With his support, the Grand Rapid affiliate joined with others to initiate Protecting Michigan’s Children in order to change the laws regarding statutes of limitations for child abuse.
In the words of Rosemary Murphy and Larry Mulligan, “Fr. Lou is a treasure to St. Robert of Newminister, our high schools, our VOTF affiliate and our entire diocese. He is available to all who call on him, young and old, rich and poor, conservative and liberal. His door is always open. We pray he will continue to pastor us for many years to come. He is a model of what a priest of integrity should be.”
