Honoring Kevin O'Donnell
Kevin O’Donnell is stepping down as director of Emmaus House, a center for spiritual companionship and contemplation, in Urbandale. The Board of Directors for Emmaus House has named associate director April Young as the new director. He is staying until Friday, December 20th in support of April Young to assure a smooth transition.
Kevin was hired as co-director in 2018, and with the retirement of Fr. Dan Krettek he took on the role as director. During O’Donnell’s time of service, Emmaus House completed a successful capital campaign and relocation in 2020 from the Sherman Hill neighborhood in Des Moines to Urbandale, as well as adjusting programming during the pandemic.
Jim Egger, chair of the Emmaus House Board of Directors, said:
“On behalf of the Emmaus Community, I express gratitude for Kevin’s service through the pivotal experiences of relocating the Center and navigating the challenge of COVID."
We will be honoring Kevin for all he has done for Emmaus House with a potluck after noon Mass on Tuesday, December 17th, and a reception Wednesday, December 18th from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. Both will be at Emmaus House.
Stop by and wish him well at either or both!
We understand it is a busy time of year, if you are unable to make it, feel free to send a card to his attention
c/o Emmaus House, 3315 70th Street, Urbandale, IA 50322 or to his email at kevin@theemmaushouse.org.
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Emmaus House is a ministry of the Diocese of Des Moines and is open to people of all faiths. Located at 3315 70th St. in Urbandale, it offers hospitality, companionship, spiritual direction, and a place for quiet prayer and reflection. Earlier this year, it celebrated its 50th anniversary of service in the Diocese of Des Moines.
For more information, contact Jim Egger james.egger@gmail.com
Date: Tuesday, December 17
Time: After 12:00 Mass
What: Potluck Lunch
Date: Wednesday, December 18
Time: 4:30 to 6:30 pm
What: Hosted Reception