We continue here our series highlighting the members of the Priests for Life Family who serve on our staff and pastoral team.
Kevin Burke and his wife, Dr. Theresa Burke, founded Rachel’s Vineyard, which is now the world’s largest healing ministry for moms, dads ,and their families who have lost children to abortion.
As the ministry grew, Kevin says, “Theresa, her sister Katie, who was working with us, and I prayed together and asked the Lord what was His will as our ministry was growing and we needed assistance to manage that growth and support our work. Above all we asked that He would bless and multiply our efforts to bring the healing of Christ to those who regret their participation in the death of the unborn.
“In 2003, We prayed specifically if we should approach Fr Frank Pavone, with whom Theresa had collaborated with over the years, and see if we should partner in this ministry.
“We all felt the confirmation to take that step and we met with Father Frank and Janet Morana and began a partnership that continues to this day.”
Kevin says he is so grateful to be able to witness “the power of God to use what is a great tragedy and cross in many people’s lives, an area of shame and darkness, and bring His light and peace.”
Kevin notes that many people who repent and are healed of their involvement in abortion have become leaders in pro-life outreach, abortion recovery and other ministry in their faith communities.
As a fulltime pastoral associate with Priests for Life, Kevin not only works in the arena of Rachel’s Vineyard, but also assists the Silent No More Awareness Campaign. His work includes strategizing new ways to get out the message that healing is available to anyone. Kevin also writes extensively – his most recent book is Tears of the Fisherman – and travels to speaking engagements to educate the public about the wider impact of abortion on individuals, couples, families and entire nations of people.
“I feel so blessed, and it is a joy, to work with so many dedicated, talented and wonderful people, each with different gifts. But this diversity of gifts is at the service of our mission, and empowers our mission in so many ways that would be impossible on our own. The work environment at Priests for Life is one that is professional, expects you to give your best, work hard, but also one where you feel supported and valued and most of all, empowered in your mission and vocation.”
Kevin is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania who is the father of five and grandfather of two. He describes it as a blessing to work with Father Frank, Janet, and the administration and staff.
“I think the leadership of the organization, the administration also reflects a diversity of talent and a shared intense dedication to mission,” he says. “But they are also leaders that value their employees and nurture and empower us in our mission.”