Philadelphia (CMA/SNR) - Father Christopher Kubat, pastor of St. Cecilia Parish in Hastings, was named national chaplain of the Catholic Medical Association. He will begin serving in his newly appointed role Jan. 1, 2021.
“The work of the CMA is increasingly important to bring the rational truth to the art and practice of medicine and Father Kubat’s dual gift of being both priest and physician makes him extremely well suited to this role,” said Bishop Robert Vasa, interim episcopal advisor. Vasa, Bishop of Santa Rosa, Calif., is also a priest of the Diocese of Lincoln.
Ordained in 1999, Father Kubat is board certified in urology. In his role as national chaplain, Father Kubat will work with CMA’s episcopal advisor, board, and members. He will offer his spiritual and medical guidance to members, celebrate Mass at CMA events, and hear confessions, among other duties.
“In addition to Father Kubat’s many gifts and talents, his deep interior prayer life will serve as an example to the board and our members, that it is this Communion with Our Lord, which ultimately sustains and guides us in the joys and challenges of life,” said CMA President Dr. Michael Parker.
Father Kubat is a member of CMA’s Health Policy Committee, Vicar for Health Care Ministries for the Diocese of Lincoln, and is on various ethics and research committees for hospitals in his community.
Recently, his leadership was demonstrated as the COVID-19 pandemic forced a change in plans for an in-person CMA retreat to a “virtual retreat” which was well attended by members.
Bishop Vasa thanked Father Matthew Gutowski who served as chaplain for nearly 10 years.
“His support and encouragement have provided immeasurable good to the organization,” he said, “and I have no doubt he is deeply appreciated by all CMA members, especially the board.”
The selection process was a difficult one for the nominating committee and the board,” said Mario Dickerson, CMA executive director.
“We were blessed with many qualified priests who applied and are known and loved by our members.”
