Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

A ceremony on April 13 marked the presentation of a chalice and paten to Deacon Isaac Wahlmeier, who is set to be ordained as a priest on May 24 at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln. The items were given in memory of Curt Gleason, a St. Cecilia High School alumnus and member of the Knights of Columbus' Fourth Degree "Chalice Club," who passed away on March 29, 2024.

Gleason's widow, Nancy, chose Deacon Wahlmeier as the recipient. The ceremony highlighted that “no more appropriate offering could be made to the memory of a Catholic man than the instruments of the Mass – the chalice and the paten.” These items will serve as a memorial when used during Mass.

The chalice is used in Mass for wine consecration, while the paten holds the consecrated Body of Christ. The Knights of Columbus was founded in 1882 with principles of charity, unity, and fraternity. Patriotism was added in 1900 to emphasize loyalty to both God and country.

Fourth Degree members are known as "Sir Knight" and participate in various activities promoting Catholic citizenship. The Chalice Club exemplifies their support for priestly vocations, with over 3,500 assemblies worldwide.

Wahlmeier was ordained a deacon in May 2024 and served at St. Teresa Parish in Lincoln last summer. He is completing his studies at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia and will celebrate his first Mass at St. Michael Church in Hastings after his ordination.