Location
The Fr. Beiting Appalachian Mission is in the Appalachian Mountains of Eastern Kentucky. The
Mission Center is located in Louisa, the county seat of Lawrence county. Every day we serve
some of the poorest counties in the United States.
Evangelization
For over 60 years Fr. Beiting has created many wonderful programs and services. Being an
Appalachian Angel partner will give your parish access to Fr. Beiting’s wealth of knowledge. He
has evangelized people of the region who have had extreme prejudice against Catholics. Our
work is ecumenical yet, some prejudice remains today. The volunteers from your parish will be
doing hands-on projects often side by side with Appalachian residences who are very grateful.
The Mission Experience
The mission experience is very unique. The volunteers will see and hear many of the difficulties
in Eastern Kentucky. Spiritual growth is embedded in all activities such as physical work by
doing home repairs, working with children in camps and assisting in the thrift stores that cater
to the poor and more. Evening pray and reflection are often led by Fr.Beiting.
Appalachian Culture
The people here have a colorful past with the legendary family feuds! Many families have lived
here for generation relying on farming, logging and coal mining. The economy is poor. The
volunteers will have a chance to meet with Appalachian residents and parishioners from St.
Jude Catholic Church (82 members). There is 1 Catholic for every 200 people in the region. The
volunteers get an up close look at the beautiful and historic Appalachian Mountains.
Diocese Support
The Most Reverend Ronald W. Gainer, Bishop of Lexington, Kentucky has given Father Beiting the
permission to offer this program inside and outside our diocese.
Available for your review is a 10 minute DVD and a 10 page case study.
For more information contact:
Jay Schwalbach, full time volunteer
[email protected]
859-753-5530 cell
606-638-0219 mission office
www.fbamc-ky.org