Director, Fr. Bill Atkinson, O.S.A. Guild

Primary Responsibilities: The Director of the Fr. Bill Atkinson, O.S.A. Guild is primarily responsible for all promotional activities associated with the Cause for Canonization of Servant of God Fr. Bill Atkinson, O.S.A. as well as Fr. John McKniff, O.S.A. The Director will oversee the activities of the Atkinson Guild to create awareness both in and outside the U.S. of these two Augustinian Servants of God's lives, virtues and legacy. The position includes, but is not limited to the following essential functions: Demonstrates support for the mission and goals of the Province of St. Thomas of Villanova and the Order of St. Augustine. Responsible for advancing awareness of Frs. Atkinson and McKniff's lives, witness, and Augustinian spirituality while fostering devotion among the faithful. Creates and oversees pilgrimage opportunities connected to places of significance in Fr. Atkinson's life and ministry, including sites associated with the Augustinian Order and institutions where Fr. Bill served as well as St. Thomas of Villanova Church on the campus of Villanova University where he is laid to rest. Work with schools, parishes, and Augustinian ministries to facilitate group pilgrimages and retreats. Produce and distribute devotional and educational materials (prayer cards, publications, digital resources, etc. about Frs. Atkinson and McKniff's lives and spirituality. Collect and document testimonials, stories of favors received, and accounts of Servants of God's intercession. Coordinate with Augustinian leadership and the Postulator in Rome to ensure all promotional activities follow canonical norms governing the Causes of Saints. Collaborate with the Postulator on the progress of the Causes. Develop and implement initiatives to promote awareness of the life, virtues and witness of Servants of God. Coordinate speaking engagements, presentations, and events focused on their lives and legacy. Develop a list of family members, other lay people, and friars who can speak on behalf of the Causes. Develop educational programming for parishes, Catholic schools, and Augustinian institutions highlighting Servants of God's witness of faith and perseverance. Engage volunteers and lay collaborators in supporting the mission of the Causes.