Roman Catholic Diocese of Lexington Priest and Lexington Catholic High School Chaplain Father Norman Fischer has sadly passed away. He died on Sunday, July 14th, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family. The news of his passing was announced through a heartfelt Facebook post that reads, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our dear friend and fellow priest, Father Norman Fischer of Saints Peter Claver Church. Father Fischer passed away unexpectedly last night.” The actual cause of Father Norman Fischer’s death has not been released.
Father Norman attended Boyle County High School and enrolled at Centre College in 1991. He fondly recalled learning from phenomenal faculty like Dr. Bill Johnston, Dr. Mykol Hamilton, Dr. Phyllis Pasareillo, Stephen Powell, and Sheldon Tapley. Through his experiences of “Doctrina Lux Mentis,” he thrived academically and learned to truly think critically. His rigorous courses helped him define his aspirations as a healer. He was also inspired by Ann Young, who led many efforts to serve the community. Ann made it fun and exciting to do service before Centre required students to complete mandatory service hours; Centre did it because it was the right thing to do, before it was a trend. Father Norman found deep meaning and joy as part of his involvement with CARE (Centre Action Reaches Everyone).
He volunteered at Woodlawn, a local home for foster children, and became a big brother to two youths. During the summer, he worked as a recreational therapist at the same foster home, now known as Sunrise Children’s Services. On Centre’s campus, Father Norman was an officer in the Black Student Union. He also competed on the track team in sprinting events and the triple jump, with his best jump reaching an astounding 40 feet. He enjoyed participating in the play “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
Father Norman served as a Resident Advisor for two years and joined Sigma Chi fraternity, where he was elected as proconsul. In this position, he led brothers in prayer, spiritual growth, and development during his junior and senior years. He treasured the brotherhood from his Sigma Chi days. In 1995, Father Norman graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in both Psychology and Art. He credited his time at Centre College with giving him the critical thinking and discernment skills to hear God’s calling. Shortly after graduation, he enrolled at Mundelein Seminary in the Archdiocese of Chicago. As part of his studies, he visited Rome on a pilgrimage, where he met St. John Paul II. He later received a letter from the Pope thanking him for a painting of Mother Teresa that he had given to the Pope.
Father Norman received his Master of Divinity at Mundelein Seminary and was ordained on May 27, 2000. He made history as the first priest of both African-American and Filipino heritage in the Diocese of Lexington, KY. He began ministering to two parishes: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and St. Peter Claver. Currently, Father Norman served as school chaplain at Lexington Catholic High School, leading the institution’s Spiritual Life Center and holding regular religious services. He was also the parish priest of a dynamic and growing St. Peter Claver Catholic Church in downtown Lexington. As an alumnus, he frequently pointed Lexington Catholic students toward Centre College.
The passing of Father Norman Fischer has left a significant void in the community. He was known for his unwavering commitment to his faith and the people he served. His influence extended beyond the church, touching the lives of students, parishioners, and the broader community. His legacy of faith, service, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him.
As the community mourns the loss of Father Norman, they await further details regarding the circumstances of his passing. The focus remains on celebrating his life and contributions while providing support to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Father Norman Fischer’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by his family. The family requests privacy during this period of mourning and appreciates the outpouring of support and condolences from the community.
Father Norman Fischer’s legacy is one of faith, dedication, and a deep commitment to serving others. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. The Diocese of Lexington, Lexington Catholic High School, and the broader community will forever remember him as a beacon of light and inspiration.
