Karley Bates

Karley Bates, a native of Galesburg and now a member of St. Jude Parish in Peoria, has joined the diocesan Office of Evangelization and Faith Formation as programs coordinator.

“We’re excited to have Karley on board,” said Shirley Plaag, director. “She’s extremely enthusiastic about working here.”

Bates, a product of Costa Catholic Academy in Galesburg and a graduate of Galesburg High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational communications from Bradley University in 2016. During college she was active at the St. Joseph Newman Center and also served on teams of the Diocese of Peoria’s Totus Tuus summer faith formation program for youth.

Plaag said that while she will focus on the office’s long-term vision, Bates will help implement that vision, especially in the areas of youth and young adults.

A recent Gospel story told how Peter got out of the boat to join Jesus who was walking on the water.

“We so often don’t want to get out of our ‘boats,’” said Bates. “This position is me getting out of my boat and trusting the Holy Spirit is going to use me as a vessel.”