Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee highlights key growth
The East Tennessee Catholic
Good works occurring in the Diocese of Knoxville were on display last fall as members and special guests were invited to join Bishop Mark Beckman for an evening in celebration of the Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee (CFET).
Catholic Foundation receptions were held to offer an update on the status of the foundation and the formation of diocesan seminarians.
Three events were offered: on Oct. 1 at the Bluff View Art District in Chattanooga, on Sept. 17 at St. Dominic Church in Kingsport, and on Nov. 20 in the Cathedral Hall of the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Knoxville.
The Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee supports the education and formation of the seminarians of the Diocese of Knoxville. Catholic Foundation members also support the purchase of property that will become the foundation for future parishes across the diocese.
Bishop Mark Beckman hosted Diocese of Knoxville seminarians on Aug. 6 at the bishop’s residence.
Catholic Foundation events recognize the good work of current members while also inviting new and prospective members to learn more about the foundation’s efforts throughout East Tennessee.
For those who had an opportunity to attend a 2025 CFET reception, they heard about St. Peter, the honorary patron saint of the Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee.
The foundation looks to the steadfast witness of St. Peter, the rock upon whom Jesus Christ built His Church (Matthew 16:18).
St. Peter’s example continues to inspire the work of CFET members as they support the foundations of the Church today: seminarians who prepare to serve as future shepherds and the growth of the diocese, which is strengthened through the purchase of land for future parishes.
In an update provided to CFET members and guests, Deacon Hicks Armor, executive director of the Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee, shared highlights at each event:
- Nine seminarians are currently studying for the priesthood.
Father A.J. Houston and Father Renzo Alvarado Suarez were ordained to the priesthood in June.
- The Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee has distributed more than $4.2 million in support of seminarian education and land purchases.
The commitment of Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee members reflects the enduring mission entrusted to the Church from the time of the Apostles.
By investing in the men who will one day guide Christ’s flock and offering support for the places where that flock will one day gather, the foundation helps to ensure that the Gospel continues to take root in every generation.
Educating future priests and funding land purchases continue to grow the Diocese of Knoxville to serve all Catholics within the region.
The Diocese of Knoxville recently concluded the largest survey of the faithful in its history. During Lent 2025, parishioners were asked to fill out the Disciple Maker Index (DMI) and comment on parish life, their personal beliefs, and the health of the Catholic community in East Tennessee.
With 100 percent participation among the parishes, the diocesan-wide survey results are helping to shape the direction of both the Diocese of Knoxville and individual parishes in the coming years.
Five areas of priority have been determined, with one key priority being a focus on the promotion of vocations throughout the diocese.
Educating men for the priesthood is essential to ensuring a sacramental life for the faithful in East Tennessee. And formation helps men more deeply discern their calling.
In the Diocese of Knoxville, the education of one seminarian costs $70,000 annually. To provide for the needs of the parishes throughout East Tennessee, the diocese strives to have seven men enter into seminary each year.
The diocese views these costs not as expenses but rather as essential investments. A well-formed priest answers God’s call on his life by faithfully serving thousands of Catholics over many decades. The value of providing the sacraments and guiding parish communities is immeasurable.
Additionally, land is needed for the growth of the diocese and the establishment of new parishes. In 1988, when the diocese was formed, there were 38 Catholic churches in East Tennessee. Today there are 50 parishes, one mission church, and one public association of the faithful.
The diocese sees a growing need for the establishment of new churches in the years to come. Growth areas include the Vietnamese community within the Chattanooga area as well as growing Catholic communities in South Pittsburg and Ooltewah, to name only a few of the many locations that are seeing expansion.
Support of the Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee represents an important strategic investment in the future of the local Catholic Church. The motto of the foundation is “Building the Catholic Church in East Tennessee—One Priest and One Parish at a Time.” This vision helps to meet these two essential needs for the Diocese of Knoxville.
Membership within the Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee makes the growth of the Diocese of Knoxville possible. An investment in the Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee is an investment in the people of the diocese and the future of the local Church.
Together, the faithful of the Diocese of Knoxville continue the witness of all those who have come before to ensure the Catholic Church in East Tennessee thrives for generations to come. For more information about how to support the good work of the Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee, contact the diocesan Office of Stewardship at 865-584-3307.