Why Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem., Chose Norbertine Life

By Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem.

When I think about what attracted me to Norbertine life, three thoughts come to mind:

  1. I attended a Norbertine high school where almost all of my teachers were Norbertines. They were very dedicated men who cared about the students and they seemed happy. I was thinking about becoming a teacher at that time and now realize what wonderful role models they were.
  2. My uncle was in the Norbertine Order—a very fine man, who also played a role in my decision.
  3. My faith-filled parents also were instrumental in my decision. They were wonderful people who believed a priest in the family was a blessing from God.

It is such a joy working with people from another culture …

—Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem.
Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem. (center)
Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem. (center)

My greatest blessing as a priest has been the opportunity to serve. I served 20 years as a teacher at Abbot Pennings High School, 35 years as pastor of a parish, and 30 years ministering to the Hispanic community.

This ministry in particular has invigorated my desire to continue to serve, even though I am in my 80s. It is such a joy working with people from another culture who are poor, who have suffered—and continue to suffer—yet are very resilient, facing adversity with a profound faith.

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Green Bay Packers Honor Norbertine for 6,000+ Hours of Service

Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem., reflects in the cemetery of St. Norbert Abbey.

Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem.

Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem.
Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem.

The Norbertine Community of St. Norbert Abbey is proud to announce that Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem., is the recipient of the 2017 Green Bay Packers Give Back Award (senior category). This award honors volunteers who exemplify:

  • leadership,
  • dedication,
  • creativity, and
  • a commitment to improving the communities in which they live through volunteerism.

Fr. De Groot, co-founder of Casa ALBA Melanie Hispanic Community Resource Center for Green Bay (Casa ALBA Melanie), has volunteered 1,200 hours annually for the past five years, working tirelessly to raise funds for this organization.

Hopefully, our work at Casa ALBA Melanie helps move our community to work more closely together for the good and benefit of all.

–Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem.

Casa ALBA Melanie nurtures the well-being and wholesome development of all members of the Hispanic community in the Green Bay area. It serves as a hub for information and referral, bringing together persons seeking assistance with service providers in the community.

Regarding this award, Fr. De Groot shared:

Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem. (right) receives the Green Bay Packers Give Back Award (senior category) from Mark Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Green Bay Packers
Fr. Ken De Groot, O. Praem. (right) receives the Green Bay Packers Give Back Award (senior category) from Mark Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Green Bay Packers

“While I appreciate this honor very much as well as the recognition for Casa ALBA Melanie, this work is not something extraordinary as I believe we are all called to minister to the poor and needy in whatever situation we find ourselves.

This is at the heart of the Gospel message and I have been afforded this opportunity which also brings me much satisfaction as well as growth in my understanding of diversity and other cultures. We are all equal and deserve the respect and love of everyone.

I have been very much influenced by the numerous people who are associated with Casa ALBA Melanie and who give of their time and talents for the success of this ministry. Hopefully, our work at Casa ALBA Melanie helps move our community to work more closely together for the good and benefit of all.”

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