Marianist Father Gerald Pleva, 69, was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisc., and has a younger brother. He attended St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, Winona State University (then College) in Minnesota, Seattle University, and Regis College in Toronto. After being a Society of Mary (Marianist) brother for many years, Father Pleva was ordained as a priest for the order on May 28, 1977 in Milwaukee. He has taught high school for over 30 years and served in parishes for over 15 years, living in St. Louis, Mo., Galesville, Wisc., and San Antonio, Texas, and in India and Nepal. Father Pleva arrived in Hawaii  on Febuary 1, 2006 and is currently the associate pastor at St. Anthony Parish in Wailuku, Maui.

1. How many years have you been in the Society of Mary (Marianists)?

This is my Golden Jubilee Year (50 years) as a Marianist. I am filled with awe and thanksgiving in how Jesus has been and is present in my life, and I look forward to the many surprises as I move on in my journey.

2. What or who makes you laugh?

Celebrating a grade school Mass with a dialogue homily. The eagerness of the young to respond to questions and then their responses are priceless.

3. What is your favorite childhood memory?

Growing up in the St. Francis, Wis., on the southern outskirts of Milwaukee. When I grew up, it was all country with fields to roam and cliffs to explore along Lake Michigan.

4. Who is your favorite writer?

I enjoy the columns of Oblate Father Ronald Rolheiser in the Hawaii Catholic Herald and his books. He has a way of dealing with topics that are important today.

5. Who do you consider to be a hero in your life?

Mother Teresa of Calcutta. When I was in India, I had the opportunity to meet with her personally for over an hour – an experience I will never forget.

6. Where is the one place you have never been but always wanted to visit?

I'd like to visit Prague, Czechoslovakia, where my grandparents were born. They had fond memories of Prague that they shared with me.

7. What is the biggest challenge facing the Catholic Church today?

To bring hope, light and meaning into many areas of darkness in our world today. We as a Church are also called to “change” in being Christ in our world today.

8. Who in this world would you most like to meet?

Benedictine Father David Steindl-Rast. He has introduced me and deepened my life with gratefulness through his creative website www.gratefulness.org. He has given so much to me, and I would like to thank him personally.