‘Quiet Catholics’ Make a Big Impact Behind the Scenes

Although Kurt and Tracie Chew fully support the Catholic Church and their faith, they are happy to remain in the background and do whatever they can to help Bishop Joe Vásquez fulfill his mission as well as the mission of the Diocese of Austin.

The members of St. Mary Cathedral in Austin even have a self-imposed title, “quiet Catholics.” They see themselves like the many people listed in the credits that roll at the end of a movie—those who may not appear on screen, but whose role is equally important to making the production a success.

“That’s what I think of when we describe ourselves as ‘quiet Catholics,’ behind the scenes helping and partnering, if you will, to make Bishop’s mission for the Diocese achievable, successful and ongoing,” Tracie said. “Every gift, large or small, makes a world of difference.”

The Chews’ support extends beyond their parish to the Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) and the Encountering Christ campaign. They are especially dedicated to ministries for the clergy, from their seminary years through retirement.

In their eyes, “everyone has a responsibility” to ensure the men who spend a lifetime serving in our parishes are taken care of during their senior years.

“They’ve given so much of themselves,” Tracie said.

The couple directs 99 percent of their charitable funds to the Diocese or the Church, knowing these gifts fund initiatives that help senior priests, like the St. John Paul II Residence for Priests in Georgetown, and assist men who are discerning vocations and in seminary formation.

“There are a lot of great charities out there that we could support,” Kurt said. “But to us, the Diocese knows how to best support the mission of Christ in our community.”

His wife agreed. “They know where the needs are and how to prioritize them, so we totally put our trust in them for that,” Tracie said.

The Chews have included the Diocese in their estate plan and, to ensure there are enough priests to sustain the church in Central Texas for future generations, created the Tracie and Kurt Chew Seminarian Endowment in the Catholic Foundation—Diocese of Austin.

“God has truly blessed us with his love and abundant blessings,” Kurt said. “It is important for us to give back the many blessings that we have received from God.”

Giving back to the Diocese also brings them joy, he added. “I give, from my heart and my soul. I’m grateful. I want to help my brothers and sisters in need because we are so blessed and that is what we are all called to do.”