Joseph L. Thaler was born in Dayton, Kentucky. He was ordained on May 21, 1977 at Maryknoll, New York. After ordination, Fr. Joe was part of the first group of Maryknollers assigned to open the new mission work in Nepal. His work involved programs with the mentally disabled, including research on disabilities in Nepal, Special Olympics, youth programs, educational/scholarship activities, and director of a House of Hospitality for the poor of Nepal. He worked with others in address in human trafficking in the villages and brick factories and the immigrant workers. He was also active in giving retreats.
When the massive earthquake struck Nepal in April 2015, Father Joe monitored the distribution of emergency supplies and care for the people. Due to his efforts, Maryknoll helped coordinate movement to rural areas of home and school construction materials, water pipes, toilets, and roofing for over 1400 homes in Nepal as well as the rebuilding of six schools.
Join us to welcome Maryknoll Fr. Joe Thaler as he shares with us insights from his ministry with the people of Nepal recalling their culture and faith life following many years of on-going service. Â He will share several important transformative relationships that he developed there, as well as what he is planning for his next ministry accompanying and serving an American Indian community in the U.S.Â
