In Lexington, Kentucky, an unusual yet heartwarming event unfolded recently when two bottles of Kentucky bourbon, signed by Pope Francis, were auctioned off to raise funds for those in need, including homeless pets. This unique initiative was spearheaded by Reverend Jim Sichko, a Catholic priest who saw an opportunity to blend the famous bourbon of his state with his role as papal missionary for mercy to make a difference in the lives of others.
Sichko explained his approach, acknowledging that some people might question the method, but he believes in thinking outside the box. “I’m always looking for original ways to make an impact,” he said. The unconventional auction gathered about $30,000, with Sotheby’s facilitating the event. Not only were the Pope’s signed bottles featured, but also a bottle autographed by former Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, showcasing a blend of sportsmanship and faith in action.
The proceeds from the auction are being directed to various organizations chosen by Sichko. On January 31st, he presented a check to Paws 4 the Cause, an animal rescue in Lexington. The funds will also support hospice care in Texas and a legal clinic in Lexington that assists immigrants.
This endeavor began a few years ago when Sichko gifted Pope Francis a rare bottle of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon during his visit to Rome. Following this, he regularly brought gifts, often bourbon from Kentucky, to the Pope, merging his missionary work with a unique aspect of local culture.
Reverend Sichko is one of many missionaries appointed by Pope Francis, tasked with spreading goodwill, mercy, and joy. He travels extensively—about 300 days a year—as an evangelist. During a recent trip to the Vatican, he took along two bottles of bourbon, hoping to have them signed by the Pope not for personal gain, but to auction them for charitable purposes.
When he had the chance to present the bottles, he was pleasantly surprised by the Pope’s interest. The conversation took a light-hearted turn when the Pope inquired which bottle was for him, leading to a moment of candid honesty from Sichko.
“My intention was never to keep them,” he clarified. “I wanted to find a creative way to use them for the benefit of others.” His partner in this philanthropic project was Drew Kulsveen, master distiller at Willett Distillery. Kulsveen expressed his pride in being part of such a meaningful initiative that promises to impact many lives.
Upon delivering the funds to Paws 4 the Cause, Sichko was warmly welcomed. Anita Spreitzer, the organization’s vice president, noted that the donation would significantly aid in their ongoing expansion efforts.
Looking forward, Sichko hopes to return to the Vatican in six months, though he is hesitant to ask the Pope for more signed bottles, recognizing that constant requests might diminish the novelty.
He aims to inspire a wave of kindness that extends beyond grand gestures, suggesting that even small acts—like holding the door open for someone—can have a ripple effect. “It doesn’t cost anything to be kind,” he emphasized.
In a world that often seems divided and angry, Sichko’s message is one of unity and love. He believes it’s essential to remember our shared humanity and the love that connects us all, regardless of our differences.
