Father Paul Wander

By Father Paul Wander

Deacon Francis and Anna Wander

As I was growing up in Weiser, my parents taught me by their words and example to worship God by attending Mass and receiving the Sacraments. They taught me that God loves me always and that I should love God always.

They also taught me that God asks each of us to love Him back and to live out that love by loving those around us. This took such deep root in me and is the heart of my reason to become a priest.

My dad, Francis Wander, went on to become a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Boise in 1986. My mother, Anna, also attended all the classes as required, so that they could learn and grow together. When I was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Boise in 1990, Dad and I were one of only six pairs in the United States of a dad being a deacon and his son a priest.

Having Dad and Mom journey toward the diaconate at the same time that I was just beginning to walk my own journey toward the priesthood was inspiring and encouraging to me. Dad’s ministry and dedication as a deacon and my mom’s ministry at St. Agnes Parish in Weiser were fantastic examples of being servants of Christ, ministering to the people of God who are the Church.

Recently, I decided to use part of an inheritance from my late brother Gary to create an endowment fund to help diaconal candidates, especially those who live in rural areas. I hope to add to it using my qualified charitable distribution from my IRA.

The endowment is open to any who would like to contribute. If God is calling you to help in this way, please send your contributions payable to the Idaho Catholic Foundation for the:

Deacon Francis and Anna Wander Memorial Fund Idaho Catholic Foundation
1501 S. Federal Way, Suite 400
Boise, ID 83705

May God continue to bless all deacons and their wives and families.