Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Raymond Goedert, a beloved figure in the Archdiocese of Chicago, has passed away at the age of 96. His remarkable 71-year service to the Church was honored by Cardinal Blase Cupich, who described him as a devoted servant. Goedert held various roles within the archdiocese and was known for his kindness and friendship. His funeral will be held at Holy Name Cathedral, with a heartfelt eulogy delivered by his close friend, Fr. Scott Donahue. As we bid farewell to this exceptional man, we reflect on his journey from seminary to consecration and the lasting impact he made on those around him.

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Remembering Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Raymond Goedert

A Life Well-Lived

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Raymond Goedert on December 9. At the age of 96, Bishop Goedert peacefully departed from this world, leaving behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and selfless service. As we mourn his loss, we are reminded of the remarkable 71 years he dedicated to the Church and the Archdiocese of Chicago.

A Shepherd’s Commitment

Bishop Goedert’s commitment to the Archdiocese of Chicago was unwavering throughout his life. He served in various roles, including pastor, notary, and vicar general. His leadership and dedication were particularly evident when he stepped in as the archdiocese’s administrator following the passing of Cardinal Bernardin. Bishop Goedert’s contributions to the growth and well-being of the archdiocese were invaluable.

Not only was Bishop Goedert a respected figure within the Church, but he was also a beloved brother and friend to many. His kindness and compassion touched the lives of those around him, leaving a lasting impact. As he departs from this life, we can only imagine the joyous reunion he will have at the heavenly banquet.

A Farewell and Tribute


On December 18, we will gather at Chicago’s Holy Name Cathedral to bid farewell to Bishop Goedert. Cardinal Blase Cupich will preside over the funeral liturgy, and the homily will be delivered by Fr. Scott Donahue, a close friend of Bishop Goedert. Following the funeral, Bishop Goedert will be laid to rest in the peaceful grounds of St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in River Grove.

Bishop Goedert’s life was marked by a deep commitment to his faith and a genuine love for others. His friendship and guidance have been a blessing to many, including Fr. Donahue, who considers their friendship one of the greatest blessings of his 42 years as a priest. We remember Bishop Goedert not only for his accomplishments but also for the kindness and warmth he brought to every interaction.

Remembering the Life and Ministry of Raymond Goedert

A Foundation of Faith and Education

Raymond Goedert, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Chicago, led a life marked by a deep commitment to his faith and a passion for serving others. Born on October 15, 1927, in the Chicago region, Bishop Goedert’s journey of faith began at a young age. Raised in a devout Catholic family, he was instilled with the values of love, compassion, and service.

Education played a crucial role in shaping Bishop Goedert’s path. He attended the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, a renowned seminary in the northern suburbs of Chicago. It was during his time at the university that he developed a strong foundation in theology and a deep understanding of the Catholic faith. This education laid the groundwork for his future ministry and service to the Church.

A Lifelong Commitment to Service

In 1952, Raymond Goedert was ordained as a priest, embarking on a lifelong journey of service to the Church. His dedication and passion for his vocation led him to Rome, where he pursued further studies in canon law. This period of his life was not without challenges, as he experienced a harrowing boat crash while returning to the United States. Despite this ordeal, Bishop Goedert’s unwavering faith and resilience carried him through.

His time in Rome provided him with a wealth of knowledge and a deeper understanding of the intricacies of canon law. It was a transformative period that shaped his perspective and prepared him for the important role he would later assume within the Archdiocese of Chicago.

A Shepherd Guided by Faith


In 1991, Raymond Goedert was consecrated to the ministry as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Chicago by Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, under the appointment of Pope John Paul II. This marked a significant milestone in his life and ministry, as he embraced the responsibilities and challenges that came with his new role.

As an auxiliary bishop, Bishop Goedert served the archdiocese with unwavering dedication and commitment. He held various positions of leadership, including the role of vicar general from 1995 until his retirement in 2003. His contributions to the growth and well-being of the archdiocese were invaluable, and his leadership was characterized by compassion, wisdom, and a deep sense of faith.

Bishop Goedert’s service to the Archdiocese of Chicago was marked by his genuine love for others and his unwavering commitment to the teachings of the Catholic Church. He was a shepherd who guided and inspired those under his care, leaving a lasting impact on the community he served.

Throughout his life and ministry, Bishop Goedert exemplified the virtues of faith, compassion, and selfless service. His legacy continues to inspire others to live lives of devotion, love, and service to God and their fellow human beings.

Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Raymond Goedert, a beloved figure in the Archdiocese of Chicago, has passed away at the age of 96. His remarkable 71-year service to the Church was honored by Cardinal Blase Cupich, who described him as a devoted servant. Goedert held various roles within the archdiocese and was known for his kindness and friendship. His funeral will be held at Holy Name Cathedral, with a heartfelt eulogy delivered by his close friend, Fr. Scott Donahue. As we bid farewell to this exceptional man, we reflect on his journey from seminary to consecration and the lasting impact he made on those around him.

Thank you for taking the time to read about the life and legacy of Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Raymond Goedert. May his memory inspire us to live lives of faith, compassion, and selfless service.