Four Questions with Rev. Phil Seher

At the start of the 2022-23 school year, Reverend Phil Seher came out of retirement to be The Summit’s full-time chaplain. Here, he talks with Communications Director Tami McMann about his role on campus and what inspires him each day.

How did it feel to be asked to return to The Summit after your previous retirement? What drew you back? It felt very good to be asked back to The Summit. I had more free time than I wanted, so last year I mentioned to Fr. Dave Lemkuhl that I was available if he needed help. He took my offer and I helped on several occasions. “Beacons of Light” brought new challenges to all the priests of the Archdiocese, both those active and retired. When Fr. Dave realized the demand of his new schedule, I was pleased to increase my time at The Summit. The Summit was always close to my heart. It was an easy decision.

What goals do you hope to accomplish this year?

My goal for this year is twofold. I am interested in providing liturgical services that are appropriate for each division. Secondly my goal is to be available to students, faculty, staff and parents. I have a very balanced theology, and in a world where there is a lot of division, I can offer a balanced approach to faith. I appreciate the diversity at The Summit and the presence of various faith traditions.

What are some of your favorite duties as chaplain?

Liturgy and prayer! Those are foremost in my ministry. Each division is different. Our Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel is likely the most remarkable chapel for a school in our entire country. It is an inspiration every time I am in it. I enjoy visiting classrooms. I thoroughly enjoy being at the morning car line and observing happy children arriving to campus. This activity is not my duty as chaplain, but I enjoy it.

How does the spiritual pillar at The Summit fit in with the academic, physical, artistic and social pillars?

Many people can identify the spiritual aspect of their lives, some do not. When you are watching an athletic event, note the player pointing upwards in thanksgiving, making a sign of the cross before a shot, kneeling as a group or verbalizing a gift from above. Einstein once said that if a scientist did not believe in the divine, he or she would create one. An artist draws deep within self to create a work that comes from within. We always look inward to examine the meaning and depth of our personal relationships. The Spiritual Pillar is always present in these aspects of our lives and complements all other areas of growth and development.