Reverand Douglas McKay
Archdiocese of Philadelphia
Father Douglas McKay is a dedicated priest from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, known for his work in addiction recovery and as the founder and chaplain of Our House Ministries in the Grays Ferry section of Philadelphia. He has served as a chaplain for Holy Family Home and worked closely with the Little Sisters of the Poor. In 2015, he received the St. Rita Peace Award for his long-standing commitment to helping those suffering from addictions to alcohol, drugs, depression, and crime. His ministry emphasizes the power of prayer, the sacraments, and faith-based sobriety programs in transforming lives. Father McKay is also the author of Heaven’s Homecoming, Story of the Calix Society: Catholic Spirituality for Addicted Persons, and My Anointing Echoes, which reflect his deep devotion to the Church’s healing mission and his decades of service to those seeking recovery.
Chris Gheysens
Chairman and CEO of Wawa
Chris Gheysens is the Chairman and CEO of Wawa, Inc., the well-known, community-focused convenience store chain headquartered in the Philadelphia region. A South Jersey native, Chris began his career at Deloitte before joining Wawa in 1997, rising through leadership roles to become CEO in 2013 and Chairman in 2025. He is widely recognized for his servant-leadership style, his commitment to treating every person with dignity, and his dedication to strengthening local communities through Wawa and The Wawa Foundation, which have donated $200 million to nonprofit partners. A graduate of Villanova University and Saint Joseph’s University, and a husband and father of four, Chris brings a purpose-driven approach to leadership, emphasizing humility, service and positivity in both business and life.
Kevin Reilly
Kevin Reilly is a former NFL player, keynote speaker, and broadcaster whose life took an unexpected turn just as his professional football career was beginning. Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1973, Kevin went on to captain the special teams for the Philadelphia Eagles and later played for the New England Patriots.
In 1976, Kevin was diagnosed with a rare tumor that led to the amputation of his left arm, shoulder, and five ribs—ending his lifelong dream of playing in the NFL. The physical and emotional recovery was grueling, forcing Kevin to confront suffering, loss, and his own limitations.
Kevin’s story is not merely about survival, but about faith, perseverance, and rising again with purpose. Sustained by faith, family, and fortitude, Kevin went on to build a successful 30-year career in business, sports broadcasting, and nonprofit fundraising, inspiring thousands along the way.
His message challenges men to keep fighting when the applause fades, to win small victories day by day, to trust God in the silence, and to believe that sometimes you have to fall in order to fly.
Mark Forrest
Mark Forrest is an acclaimed Irish tenor, whose melodic voice has filled concert halls including Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center and cathedrals worldwide. He has sung inspirational hymns for luminaries such as Saint John Paul II and Saint Mother Teresa.
His soothing Broadway melodies have entertained award-winning performers including Charlton Heston, Gregory Peck, and Maureen O’Hara. From Presidential entertainment in the White House to his own house with his wife and eight children, Mark continues to inspire the world with his music.
Mass Celebrant
Archbishop Nelson J. Perez
Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez was appointed by Pope Francis on January 23, 2020, and was installed as the 14th bishop and tenth archbishop of Philadelphia on February 18, 2020.
He attended Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia, where he earned Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Theology degrees in 1988 and 1989, respectively.
Bishop Perez’s first assignment after ordination to the priesthood was as parochial vicar of Saint Ambrose Parish, Philadelphia (1989-1993). He also served as assistant director of the Office for Hispanic Catholics (1990-1993), founding director of the Catholic Institute for Evangelization (1993-2002