We are proud to celebrate an extraordinary milestone for one of our residents, Father John Luerman, who recently marked his 70th anniversary of ordination to priesthood. At 95 years young, Father John continues to live a life filled with faith, gratitude, and connection.
Father John began his ministry in 1956 at St. Catherine Church in Indianapolis. Over the years, he faithfully served parishes in Indianapolis, New Albany, Charlestown, and most recently at St. Elizabeth in Cambridge City, where he retired from in 2001. On May 3, 2026, friends, family, and parishioners gathered at St. Andrew Church in Richmond for Father John’s 70th Anniversary Ordination to the Priesthood with a special Mass followed by a pitch-in luncheon. It was a joyful celebration, and Father John cherished the opportunity to reconnect with so many lives he has touched over the decades.
St. Elizabeth of Hungary located in Cambridge City, Indiana
“I have enjoyed my life as a priest,” Father John shared. Each morning, he begins with a prayer asking to be a good, holy, and healthy priest, and he truly feels blessed to have lived out that prayer. He treasures the lasting connections he has made over the years and fondly recalls still receiving calls and visits from individuals he baptized or married many years ago. Father John’s service extended beyond the church walls as well, building friendships throughout the neighborhoods and communities he served.
A Richmond native, Father John comes from a close-knit, hardworking family. One of six siblings—three boys and three girls—he is grateful that each valued education and built successful careers. His father instilled in them a simple but powerful lesson: to choose work they enjoy and to do it well. That advice has guided Father John throughout his life.
After retiring, he returned to Richmond and eventually made the decision to move to Friends Fellowship Community in August 2024. Having visited many senior living communities during his time as a priest, Father John felt confident in his choice, often sharing that “FFC is the best around.” With the help of his nieces and nephews, he made a smooth transition, selling his home and car and settling into his apartment in just eight days.
Fr. John Luerman
Today, Father John is a wonderful ambassador for FFC. He often shares how much he appreciates the kindness and respect shown by both residents and staff, as well as the excellent care and welcoming atmosphere. He’s also quick to add that the food is something to look forward to!
Father John’s positive experience even inspired his sister, Martha Jane, and her husband to join the FFC community, where they now live nearby.
We are truly blessed to have Father John as part of our FFC family. His life of service, faith, and friendship continues to inspire all who know him. Congratulations, Father John, on 70 incredible years of priesthood!