Priest retires after 18 years of service at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital

BELLEVILLE – After 18 years of service in the Pastoral Care Department at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Father Elmar Mauer gave his final service before retiring on Thursday, July 13, a date that coincided with his 83rd birthday.

Known for his special bond with the colleagues, his love for the St. Louis Cardinals and his sense of humor, he made a lasting impact, friends say.

“I have only been here for six months, but it has been a treat seeing him interact with the colleagues. He will definitely be missed, and I have some big shoes to fill,” says The Rev. Chance Beeler.

Mauer is famous in the Belleville community for wearing his Cardinals socks during a service. On multiple occasions he has been referred to as “the priest with the red socks.”

Mauer came to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in 1999. He said he plans to return to serve as a member of the Auxiliary Volunteers.

PHOTO: Sister Rosily Menachery, OSF, provincial councilor of Hospital Sisters of St. Francis congratulates Father Elmar Mauer on his retirement and 18 years of service.

 

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