This spring, Bishop Carl A. Kemme announced new priest assignments for the Catholic Diocese of Wichita, including the appointment of Fr. John Jirak as vicar general and moderator of the curia. Fr. Jirak replaces Fr. David Lies, who now serves as vicar for priests. The Catholic Advance recently spoke with Fr. Jirak to discuss his new role and responsibilities.

Fr. Jirak described his main duty as leading the Curia, stating, "In our diocese, a major part of the work of the vicar general is to lead the Curia. I am only six-seven weeks into this job and position, but most of my time is taken up with working with directors, working with leadership teams, with the goal and purpose of aligning around the bishop’s vision that 'All God’s children will respond to Christ’s call so as to become fully alive as missionary disciples.'"

He added that much of his work involves supporting parishes: "So in regards to outside the chancery, I am involved with issues that might come up in parishes that are seeking assistance from the bishop. I would be kind of a go-between, a mediator, or respond to the particular needs, issues, or challenges that a parish is working out."

Explaining what constitutes the curia for those unfamiliar with Church terminology, he said: "It’s all of those offices that assist the bishop in carrying out his pastoral ministry in the diocese, whether ministerial, administrative, or legislative."

Fr. Jirak has spent most of his priestly career in parish work: "I spent five years as a parochial vicar... Then I went to study canon law for three years. Since then, I have basically spent 15 years as a pastor..."

Reflecting on how this experience has prepared him for his current post, he noted: "It’s prepared me incredibly well. I never anticipated or envisioned myself working in the chancery or in this position... I am so thankful that I was prepared for this position primarily by serving as a pastor... because the curia exists to serve parishes."

He emphasized an updated approach needed for today’s Church: "The vision of curia also needs to be updated for an apostolic time that is more relationship-based... We are here to serve you. What are your particular challenges? What’s your vision? How can we assist?"

On describing “apostolic age,” he explained: "Going back to the time of Christ and the apostles... It was a Church that went out instead of relying on... an established institution... It requires a greater level of virtue... The modern apostle needs 'ships' for effective mission: discipleship, friendship/relationship, and leadership."

Although he no longer leads a parish directly on weekends, Fr. Jirak continues to travel across the diocese covering Masses when needed.

Discussing adjustments since starting his new role at Sacred Heart in Colwich where he resides with Fr. Pat York—whom he called “a great host”—he remarked on changes both professional and personal.

His leadership style draws heavily from sports analogies: "A good leader... asks what is most effective for people and salvation of souls... In regard to working with direct reports with directors, I take a very athletic approach to spiritual life." He sees himself as a coach who helps others succeed.

Fr. Jirak credits programs like those from Kansas Leadership Center and Amazing Parish for preparing him for administrative leadership within diocesan structures.

Regarding challenges ahead in learning about diocesan infrastructure and adapting from Google tools to Outlook systems at work—he admitted these transitions have been unexpectedly complex.

Having former Vicar General Fr. David Lies nearby has been helpful: "Yeah, he’s been really helpful... When I have a question, he’s always ready to respond and give some direction and encouragement."

He also mentioned working alongside his brother James Jirak—the chancery's director of operations—and reflected on their close office proximity being due more to chance than planning.

When asked about moments that shaped his approach early on as pastor at Blessed Sacrament after studying canon law under Archbishop McKnight (then-pastor), he recalled being unprepared when first asked about his vision but growing into organizational clarity over time.

Outside work responsibilities include prayer life, family connections—he enjoys spending time with nieces and nephews—and building relationships among priests across the diocese.

Fr. John Jirak recently placed wheat from his family farm in Tampa, Kansas in his new office at Wichita's Chancery—a symbol marking both transition and continuity in service.