Father Klein was ordained to the priesthood on July 14, 1984, at St. Joseph Parish in Ellinwood, KS. A graduate of St. Joseph Catholic School and Thomas More Prep, Father Klein is one of only three seminarians from Dodge City to be recommended to attend the Pontifical North American Seminary in Rome. He has been a priest for the Dioceses of Dodge City and Columbus and was an associate professor of Theology at Fordham University. He has written five books (still available on Amazon) and regularly contributes to American Magazine. He brings to our parishes a wealth of knowledge, culture, and experience.
This biographical information about Fr. Klein feels incomplete, leaving out the true value he brings to our parish. He has come home to serve, and he has brought not only his knowledge and experience, but a true desire to connect with his parishioners and communities. He noted that his move home was “humbling” and a rare opportunity. As such, it feels appropriate that we celebrate his 35 years of devotion to the Church and his faith.
I asked Father Klein if he remembers a particular moment when he felt called to the priesthood, and he shared a story about the day a Friar from Thomas More Prep (TMP) came to share information and recruit potential students from St. Joseph Catholic School. After the Friar’s presentation, he had students fill out a simple questionnaire that asked each student the following questions: Would you like more information about TMP? Would you like more information about becoming a priest or brother? Do you want to be a priest or brother?
Father replied “no” to all three questions and returned to the upstairs classroom (now Mr. Lashley’s room). As he was looking at the window contemplating the friar’s presentation, he heard the Blessed Mother’s voice: “Look at all I have done for you, and you can’t even ask for more information?!” Father returned to the friar and asked for his information page and changed his answer, thus beginning his journey to the priesthood.
This story reflects the wisdom Fr. Klein hopes to share with his parishioners: the importance of personal prayer. He often speaks of his personal commitment to the Rosary that begin at a young age, and it is not uncommon to see Fr. Klein engrossed in the Rosary while walking Coco. He has also added prayer books to the pews to encourage personal prayer in the church. He knows that vocations nourish parishes, and vocations begin in prayer.
As a way to celebrate and honor Father in his 35 years of devotion, let’s honor Father’s commitment to prayer and pray for him in his vocation, pray for our parish, pray for our community, and pray for our personal vocations in the church.
To recognize Father’s 35th Anniversary of ordination, cards of congratulations and support can be mailed to Father Terrance Klein, 214 N. Main Street, Ellinwood, KS, 67526.
