I read the article in the Great Bend Tribune: “Father Tighe celebrates 60 years of priesthood.”  With my mother, Gloria (Riedl) Marples being born in Great Bend and since she and I attended Mass at Prince of Peace Parish when we would visit Great Bend to see relatives, I have the greatest admiration for Rev. Fr. Tighe for his 60 years as a devoted Catholic Priest.  Additionally, I salute him for his distinguished service in the U.S. Army as a chaplain.  The article noted he became a naturalized U.S. citizen “as soon as he was eligible” in 1959.  I have to admire that.  I am grateful that the late Bishop of Wichita, Most Reverend Mark K. Carroll paid for Father Tighe’s education which has led to this 60 year Jubilee.  He became a priest roughly 10 years before I was born, so I am grateful that he is still around and able to celebrate his life-story with all of us.  I was also  impressed that Father Tighe’s first priestly assignment was in Liebenthal, Kansas; and that he has served parishes in Dodge City, Jetmore, Seward and Great Bend.  I wish there were more priests with such genuine dedication to God, Country and their fellow citizens. Father Tighe has certainly “given back” to his adopted land.  For that, I say “Thank you Father Tighe, and God Bless.”
 
James A. Marples,
Esbon, Kan