September 30, 2009

Serra Salute honors native Denver priest

By John Gleason

More than 200 family, friends and parishioners from Our Lady of Loreto Parish gathered for the 2009 Serra Salute Award Dinner Sept. 25 to celebrate the ministry of Msgr. “Father Ed” Buelt, pastor of the Foxfield church.

The lighthearted evening drew laughter as speakers shared favorite recollections about the priest’s work, unbounded energy and legendary sermons.

“We honor Msgr. Edward Buelt this evening as the 43rd (Serra Salute) honoree,” said William Eck, chairman of the Serra Trust Fund for Vocations, eliciting applause as he opened the annual benefit event at Pinehurst Country Club. 

The Serra Salute Award is given to priests, religious and deacons for their work fostering vocations to the priesthood. Organizers said they were happy to present the 2009 award to a native Denver priest as the Church observes the Year for Priests.

Proceeds from the dinner benefit the Serra Trust, which provides financial assistance to those who are in formation or in discernment for the priesthood, diaconate or religious life.

Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., who gave the invocation, praised Msgr. Buelt for his tireless efforts in his 27 years of service to the Church.

“Thank you so very much for your time and talent—and congratulations,” he said. 

Among his many assignments, Msgr. Buelt has served as secretary to former archbishop, now Cardinal J. Francis Stafford, and has served the Denver Archdiocese as master of ceremonies, as ecumenical and interfaith officer and as vice chancellor.  In 1992 and 1993, he was the archdiocese’s executive coordinator for World Youth Day 1993 of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, which included duties as vice president for logistics, assistant secretary and assistant treasurer. 

Named an honorary prelate by Pope John Paul II in 1996, Msgr. Buelt also served in the Pontifical Council for the Laity in Rome.  He founded Our Lady of Loreto Church in 1998 and continues to serve as its pastor.

One of the speakers was Father Steven Adams, V.F., pastor of St. Pius X Parish in Aurora and a classmate of Msgr. Buelt’s from both Mullen High School and St. Thomas Theological Seminary.

“Everything I say is true,” began Father Adams’ tribute to his friend. Chuckles ensued when he added, ”And some of it actually happened.”

Father Adams chronicled a trip the two took to South America, where the two were set upon by pick-pockets.  Later, he credited Msgr. Buelt for being present at a time of need—in every way a true friend.  He also praised him for a work ethic that is second to none.

“I’m very happy to call him my friend,” Father Adams said.

Longtime Loreto parishioner Linda Russo shared a top ten list on “How you know that Father Ed is your pastor.”  The audience, many of whom attend Msgr. Buelt’s Masses, were delighted by the comments Russo interjected.

“If the homily you’re listening to begins, ‘Once upon a time there was an octopus named Rudy, which segues into the Transfiguration, you know that Father Ed is your pastor.”

Soon, Msgr. Buelt took the microphone to express his thanks for the evening.

“I am humbled by the attention which Serra has paid to me tonight,” he said.  “I’m grateful to you all for coming.” 

Msgr. Buelt added that every one of his ministries has brought him great joy, but none of them surpasses the love he has for his parishioners at Our Lady of Loreto.

“I want to thank you, Archbishop Chaput, for the confidence with which you have given me to serve so ardent and amorous a parish community,” he said.  “And thank you for your episcopal leadership in northern Colorado.”