Distinguished Alumni (1998)

The 1998 Distinguished Alumnus Award was presented to Father Bernard Reiser September 15 at a reception in his honor. Family, friends, students and staff of The Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity gathered in the commons area outside St. Mary's Chapel after Mass to congratulate him.

Reiser was chosen by the Alumni Award Committee as an outstanding parish pastor who represents the dedication to service of God's people that characterizes diocesan priestly ministry.

In presenting the award, committee chair, Father Ralph Goman noted Reiser's long-standing service and ability to envision the needs of his parish and bring them to reality. His gifts as a pastor have endeared him to many people who value his leadership. 

Reiser encouraged the seminarians in attendance to persevere in their vocation, to treat every person they serve with kindness and respect and to do the best they can each day for the Lord.  At the end of his day, Reiser said, he thanks the Lord and tells him he has done the best he could do. By trusting God he is able to sleep well and be ready for the next day's work.