Secretariat for the Diaconate

3211 4th Street NE  Washington, DC  20017-1194  

Tel 202-541-3038  Fax: 202-541-3222

  October 16, 2000

  Deacon Joseph Chang Jae Lee

  President,  

  Korean American Deacons Association

  7031 Kenmare Drive

  Bloomington, MN  55438-2833

  Dear Deacon Joseph:

  It was a memorable moment for Peg and me as we encountered all the wonderful people on   Friday, October 6, 2000,  In Douglaston, who make up the KADA.  We have been enriched by the   experience as all of you, to a person, exhibited such great warmth and friendly hospitality.  The   Lord was certainly amongst us.

  I have delayed writing this letter, in an attempt to learn the steps you need to take in bringing   about a new national association.  

  In the correspondence I have in the folder in my office, there is reference to a constitution having   been written.  Is that true?  If so, possibly just a name change is needed.  I have not found a   copy, if there is one.  As I said at the meeting, it would be best if the name were the National   Association of Asian & Pacific American Deacons. or the NAAPAD.

  There are several things to consider:

  -Do you want to incorporate the association?  This is prudent to protect the officers from   personal liability.  For example, if you sponsored a convention and someone got hurt, you could   not be sued personally.

  -A constitution is needed.  With this document the association could be listed in the Official   Catholic Directory and would then be eligible for tax exempt status.  I will assist you with this   process.

  -All members need to vote on the proposed association.  Deacon James Yun is working on this   aspect presently.

  -Lastly, a final approval is required from the Bishops' Committee on the Diaconate.  When all is   ready, I will take of that task.

  My best wishes to you in this endeavor.  I eagerly await your reply.

  Fratenally yours in Christ,

  Deacon Gerard R. Wilson

  Executive Director