Fr. John Eustice, CSV, returned to Saint Viator High School this fall, where he directs its Campus Ministry program. Think planning school liturgies, going on retreats and leading service projects for students. But he also remains involved with young adult ministry within the Viatorian Community — and with its vocation ministry.
Fr. John Eustice at the starting line
Wait, there’s more. On Sunday, Fr. John was among the 60,000 runners to do the Chicago Marathon. It was his sixth marathon and for each one, he dedicated all of his efforts — and donations — to SALUTE, Inc., a Palatine-based organization whose mission is to help meet the needs of returning military and their families.
“Each time I run in my training, I call to mind either specific injured veterans, or those who are suffering from PTSD or physical injuries,” Fr. John says. “When I feel like I don’t want to push forward in training, the vets come to mind.”
The organization was founded in 2003 by Will and Marybeth Beiersdorf. Since that time, the organization has provided more than $7.8 million to more than 23,000 injured veterans and their families.
For the last five years, Fr. John has served as chaplain for Team SALUTE. He follows in the footsteps of Fr. Dan Hall, who ran 50 marathons after reaching the age of 50, and served as chaplain for Team SALUTE.
Fr. John with Bill Stanczak, boys’ cross country coach at Saint Viator High School
“The transition to civilian life is often difficult, especially where there is injury,” its mission states. “SALUTE delivers short term financial assistance to bridge the temporary income gaps and meet the basic needs of post 9/11 veterans.”
Fr. John has personal reasons for running. Not only does he want to make sure veterans receive the best care possible to help make their lives successful, but he points to a family member and a brother Viatorian who returned from Vietnam as injured veterans.
“Help me to support real change for our veterans today,” Br. John said before the race. “Let’s support good in the world and make a difference. Help provide a financial safety net for injured veterans and their families for SALUTE, Inc.”
Supporters can still make a donation Learn more about Salute here, and click here to make a donation to Fr. John’s fundraising efforts.