Fr. Graham Keep

How did you come to Know about the Companions of the Cross? When I was young, I attended several Catholic charismatic conferences in which Fr Bob Bedard spoke. I was impressed with his preaching and his vision for priestly ministry. I saw early on the need for evangelization, empowerment of the laity, renewal of the parish and the priesthood, and operating fully in the power of the Holy Spirit. I took on the phrase “give God permission” and incorporated it into my life. I have been watching the community grow over the years. I considered joining the Companions, but it was up to God’s timing and not mine. What is your background before you joined the Companions of the Cross? I was ordained on May 1st, 1993 for the diocese of London, Ontario. I have served in various parishes as associate and pastor. I have served on various diocesan committees and councils. I have a close association with Renewal Ministries based out of Ann Arbor Michigan,  www.renewalministries.net. I have traveled with them to various countries on mission trips. I have also spoken at a number of Catholic Charismatic conferences and retreats. I have lead parish and diocesan missions in the New Evangelization. I received a Pontifical Licentiate Degree in the New Evangelization from Sacred Heart Major Seminary. How is it, after 30 years of diocesan priestly Ministry, did you find yourself as an applicant for the Companions of the Cross? It was always in the back of my mind (and heart) to join the Companions at some point in my priesthood. It was not a matter of “if”, but “when.” During a 30 day Ignatian Retreat, it became clear that the Lord was asking me to take the next good step in my priesthood. This was to join the Companions and serve the mission, inspired by the Holy Spirit as set by Fr Bob. Through prayer, discernment and the blessing of my bishop, I am now an applicant for the Companions. I abandon myself to the will of the Lord with great joy and peace. Current Ministry I have had a year at Assumption Farm in Combermere, ON, and one year in Halifax. My next assignment is to the Catholic Charismatic Center in Houston Texas.  This center is run by Companion Priests.  I will be joining the brothers in Houston and living in the Houston household.  I have made a one year commitment to the Companions, renewable each year for the three year period. At the end of the three year period, as we mutually discern the question “Is God calling Fr Graham to a permanent commitment to the Companions of the Cross.” Then we (the Companions and I) will take that last step together. We give God permission to do with us as He wills. I am grateful for the spiritual, emotional and financial support people have offered to me encouraging me in this next good step in the priesthood. It is as if the 30 years of priesthood has been preparing me for this next chapter in my life. I simply desire to serve as best I can and have a burning desire that all may know the saving love of Jesus, the saviour of the world.