SAU Chaplain Leaving University for New Position
St. Ambrose will say goodbye to a beloved figure in Campus Ministry once the academic year comes to a close.
SAU Chaplain Father Thomas Hennen has been appointed as pastor of Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish in Davenport. The appointment was made by Bishop Thomas Zinkula.
“I make a promise of obedience to the bishop,” Hennen said. “My understanding of that promise is if he is asking me to do something that he thinks I would be well suited for and that would be for the benefit of the spiritual good of people of the Diocese of Davenport, I’m gonna
say yes to that.”
Hennen made the announcement during masses at Christ the King Chapel, March 21. He will still remain in his current role of vicar-general with the diocese. Peer Campus Minister
Matt Jung is sad to see him go.
“The university is losing a key role that has influenced so many different people, whether directly or indirectly,” Jung said. “When you have people come on campus, you want them to meet [Hennen] because he will be a difference-maker throughout their time here.”
Hennen says he will miss the daily interactions with students as his time as campus chaplain comes to a close. He is scheduled to start at his new parish effective July 1.
Father Ross Epping, a 2011 SAU graduate, is replacing Hennen. Epping will continue his role of vocations director for the diocese in addition to serving as SAU chaplain.