The annual Diocese of Allentown Golf Tournament raised over $112,000 this year to support seminarians and Catholic school students across the Diocese. Held Sept. 29 at Lehigh Country Club, the tournament drew 128 golfers and marked a new location for the event.
“My support for the annual Diocese of Allentown Golf Tournament comes from a deep personal belief in our Diocese’s mission,” said Eric Wiegand, Co-Chair of the Golf Committee. “It is a privilege to chair an event that so effectively brings individuals and organizations together to nurture future leaders and provide essential educational resources within our Diocese.”
A shotgun start for the event began at 10 a.m. on a beautiful day. Teams of golfers took to the green to play all 18 holes in a scramble format. These teams included lay members of the Diocese, as well as priests in various parishes and assignments making up a total of 32 foursomes for the tournament.
After golf, a reception was held at 3 p.m. for all participants. Starting with a blessing of the food at the event, Father Jason Stokes and Wiegand recognized and introduced the hardworking members of the committee that helped plan the successful day. These members included Ray Bishop, John Boyer, Monsignor Edward Domin, Dan Gagnier, Mike Duff, Tom Henefer, John Minutella, Brian Paugh, Pamela Russo, Monsignor Pat Schoenauer, and Paul Acampora.
All the donors for the event were also recognized, including Topper Foundation (Premier Sponsor), Equinox Benefits (Forecaddie Sponsor), ATAS International (Gold Sponsor), Allied Building Corp (Gold Sponsor), Bishop Photo (Gold Sponsor), Capital Blue Cross (Gold Sponsor), Design IP (Gold Sponsor), Northeast Financial (Gold Sponsor), Penn State Health/St. Joseph Medical Center (Gold Sponsor), River Wealth Advisors (Gold Sponsor), Feast Food Works (Gold Sponsor), Paul and Patty Huck (Gold Sponsor), and Frank and Paula Buchvalt (Hot Dog and Refreshment Sponsor).
To conclude the reception, awards were given for the Closest to the Pin at Hole 13 and Hole 16 ($100 each); Longest Drive ($100 each); Men, Women, Senior Putting Contest ($100); first and second place Championship Flight; and first and second place for the First Flight.
“Proceeds will provide seminarian scholarships for men considering a life of ordained service to the Diocese of Allentown,” said Michele Mullikin, Director of Annual Giving for the Diocese of Allentown.
“Additionally, Golf Tournament funds will provide scholarships to assist children and families hoping to enroll in one of our Catholic elementary schools, high schools, or centers for special learning.”
“I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this year’s Diocesan Golf Tournament,” said Bishop Alfred Schlert. “Through the generosity and commitment of so many, we are able to invest in the future of our Church by supporting seminarians discerning a vocation to the Priesthood and families seeking a quality, Catholic education for their children. This event is a powerful example of faith in action within our Diocese.”
Plans for next year's tournament have begun. It will be held on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 at Lehigh Country Club.
By Jennifer Russel
