Br. John Dodd, CSV, retired last week after serving the Diocese of Las Vegas as its chief financial officer — ever since Pope John Paul II established the diocese in 1995.

Br. John Dodd speaks to well wishers, including Las Vegas Bishop Joseph Pepe, left, at his retirement luncheon

Br. John Dodd speaks to well wishers, including Las Vegas Bishop Joseph Pepe, left, at his retirement luncheon

The longtime Viatorian brother provided a steady hand during the growth of the diocese, which now includes more than 30 parishes, seven elementary schools, one high school, a hospital and more than 20 social service centers.

Las Vegas Bishop Joseph Pepe recognized Br. Dodd at a luncheon last week, crediting his wise financial stewardship and integrity.

“He was forever faithful, always working to ensure that the diocese would be financially stable,” Bishop Pepe said, “which allowed us to continue our mission as a people of  God.

“It’s never easy making some of these financial decisions,” Bishop Pepe added, “but people always found Br. Dodd to be fair and honest.”

Br. Dodd earned his bachelor’s degree in business from Loyola University in Chicago and a master’s degree in economics from George Washington University, before he began  his career.

When he arrived in Las Vegas, he had already served as a comptroller of three Catholic high schools and 10 elementary schools in Peoria. He then served as treasurer of the Viatorian Province of Chicago for the next 20 years, as well as serve as a provincial councilor prior to moving west.

During his tenure in Las Vegas, Br. Dodd also served on the board of trustees of Bishop Gorman Catholic High School, and helped oversee the building of the school’s new campus in 2005.

“One of his gifts to the diocese, was to let people see leadership — not in the person of a bishop or priest,” said Fr. Thomas von Behren, provincial, “but in a working brother.

“John was an accomplished professional,” Fr. von Behren added, “who came with a lot of gifts and shared them with the diocese.”