SCRANTON – The Diocese of Scranton has welcomed three new Echo Apprentices as part of its ongoing collaboration with the University of Notre Dame.
Now entering its third cohort in the Diocese, this unique two-year program allows the graduate-level students to combine academic studies with actual parish-based ministry, helping to prepare the young adult Catholics for leadership roles in the church.
In August, Veronica Hill, Kim Berning, and Katie James all arrived in northeastern Pennsylvania from various parts of the country, bringing their faith and enthusiasm.
Each of the new Echo Apprentices will be working in a parish or ministry setting and will be mentored by local clergy.
VERONICA HILL
Placement: Saint John the Evangelist Parish, Pittston
Hometown: Glendale, AZ
Home Diocese: Tucson
With a background in biology and biochemistry, Veronica Hill brings a scientific mind and a missionary heart to her ministry.
A graduate of the University of Arizona, Veronica has experience leading weekly Bible study programs and even spent last summer as a summer missionary in Philadelphia where she cultivated relationships with the homeless.
She was drawn to the Echo Program for its unique combination of theology coursework and hands-on parish experience.
“It is meaningful to listen and learn in the classroom,” she shared, “but to have the opportunity to teach in schools and work in parishes as part of our formation takes this degree to the next level.”
At Saint John the Evangelist Parish, Veronica is eager to explore many facets of ministry – from senior outreach and religious education to social justice projects.
“The parish community has already made me feel so welcome and I cannot wait to see what the Lord has prepared for these next two years,” she added.
KIM BERNING
Placement: King’s College Campus Ministry, Wilkes-Barre
Hometown: Lenexa, KS
Home Diocese: Kansas City
Kim Berning arrives in the Diocese of Scranton with a robust background in ministry, accounting, and leadership.
A graduate of Creighton University with degrees in accounting and management and a theology minor, Kim spent time with the Apostles of the Interior Life in Texas and Italy and has worked extensively with youth and family RCIA.
“I chose the Echo Program because it offers an opportunity for in-depth study and challenge, enabling Echo students to actively share what they learn,” she said. “I believe this program prepares students for a career in ministry, but more importantly it prepares students to embrace the vocation of ministry.”
At King’s College, Kim is diving into a vibrant community of students and will be involved in guiding OCIA, leading retreats, assisting with liturgies, and mentoring through faith-sharing groups like Sisters in Faith.
“Working with college students is a unique experience that I’m enjoying,” she said. “The King’s community has been incredibly welcoming and it’s exciting to join the campus ministry team as they move into a new space.”
Though she’s new to Pennsylvania, Kim is already making the most of it.
“I’ve loved exploring the culture, even taking a coal mining tour and discovering the area through hikes,” she explained.
KATIE JAMES
Placement: Christ the King Parish, Archbald
Hometown: Webster, MA
Home Diocese: Worcester
With a degree in computer science and a minor in mathematics from Champlain College in Vermont, Katie James is no stranger to logic and systems. But it is her heart for ministry and formation that led her to say “yes” to being an ECHO Apprentice.
“After serving as a Totus Tuus missionary – a Catholic summer catechetical youth program – I discovered a deep desire to grow in my knowledge of God through the study of theology,” Katie explained. “Echo stood out to me because it combines rigorous theological study with hands-on ministry experience.”
At Christ the King Parish in Archbald, Katie will be focused on catechesis, youth ministry, and family faith formation. She is particularly passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them to encounter Christ in daily life.
“I am incredibly excited to be serving at Christ the King Parish,” Katie explained. “As an early admit to the Echo Program, I spent over a year waiting to receive my diocesan and parish placement. During that time, I prayed intentionally each day for my future community members, mentor, and parish … I’ve already seen so many of those prayers beautifully answered.”
Having driven past Scranton countless times on family road trips, Katie now finds herself happily settled in the very place she once simply passed by.
“It’s a bit surreal,” she joked. “I had no idea I’d one day get to call this place home!”