Fr. Gerald Waris

Father Gerald Waris’ recognition and defense of the human dignity in all, as well as his promotion of justice for the poor, is seen in his continued pastoral work in the Kansas City area, and his service and leadership as a founding board member of Journey to New Life, an organization that restores opportunity for those re-entering life after prison. Since its founding in 2013, JTNL has grown to offer residential housing solutions, emergency assistance, veteran housing and disability assistance to individuals released from prison.

In addition, he serves as a member of the board of trustees at Seton Center, an organization dedicated to serving neighbors in need in the Kansas City Urban Core. And for several decades, he has been an active volunteer and supporter of the Center for Exchange and Solidarity (CIS) in El Salvador, which is dedicated to the advancement of education and social justice. In his 50-plus years as a priest, he has ministered at several parishes in the Kansas City area, in affluent areas to those in the urban core, serving all without distinction.

Although he officially retired in 2010, he continues to be an active celebrant at many area churches as needed. In 2018, he was one of many clergy members from the Kansas City metro area who signed an interfaith statement affirming a pluralistic approach to religious freedoms for the KC Common Good organization.