Phi Kappa Theta Strengthens Its Commitment to Spiritual Development

On March 2, brothers representing six decades of our brotherhood from twenty-eight different chapters gathered for an evening of brotherhood in our nation’s capital.

The evening was sponsored by Phi Kappa Theta’s Foundation with alumnus and Foundation Trustee Emeritus, His Eminence, Donald Cardinal Wuerl, serving as the guest of honor.

The Washington, DC, reception was the fifth alumni reception organized by the Foundation in the last twelve months.  The other receptions have included events in San Diego, Chicago, New York and Atlanta.

In his remarks to the audience, Foundation President Stephen Hollander (Kansas State, ’82), articulated the essential role alumni play in supporting the educational programs of Phi Kappa Theta.  Additionally, Brother Hollander communicated how the Foundation continues to support Phi Kappa Theta’s commitment to develop effective servant leaders.

Fraternity President Nathan Rues (Missouri S&T, ’02) also spoke about the need for Phi Kappa Theta to play an active role in the development of brothers, especially in their spiritual development.  "The spectrum of the spiritual lives of today’s college men is all over the place,” said Brother Rues.  "Therefore, the spiritual development Phi Kappa Theta can provide is even more important today.”  He went on to share how our brothers must serve as spiritual role models for both society and for Phi Kappa Theta. Brother Rues noted that when looking for role models today, "You need look no further than Cardinal Wuerl. He is a leader who passionately serves society, Fraternity and God.”

In order to strengthen its own commitment spiritual development, Phi Kappa Theta has renamed its Spiritual Development Excellence Award in honor of Cardinal Wuerl.  This annual award will be presented to collegiate chapters who are committed to providing educational programs and activities focused on the spiritual development of their brothers.

Upon receiving the honor, Cardinal Wuerl shared some of his own thoughts to a captive audience.  Cardinal Wuerl expressed how humbled he was to have his name associated with the Fraternity's Spiritual Development Award and how proud he was that his Fraternity was committed to providing the spiritual guidance for today's collegiate men.