Jackson priest recovering from injuries received in auto accident

Even though Monsignor Ed Eftink's injuries were minor, it didn't stop his parishioners and friends from hitting their knees over the weekend to offer prayers for Eftink and two others who were injured -- one seriously -- in an accident Friday in Ste. Genevieve County.

"We were startled and then prayerful," said Walter Biri, a 26-year member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Jackson, where Eftink has been pastor for 15 years. "Everyone's praying for him that he gets better and anyone else involved in it."

According to a report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 2004 Oldsmobile Eftink was driving westbound on County Road M-32 crossed the center line and struck a 1992 Ford driven by Kimberly Hale, 35, of Bloomsdale. Hale was seriously injured, according to the report, and taken to St. Louis University Hospital by helicopter.

Hale's passenger, Clinton Wheeler, 37, of Bloomsdale, and Eftink, 67, were taken to Ste. Genevieve County Hospital by ambulance with minor injuries.

Eftink, a Catholic priest for nearly 40 years, has since been transferred to St. Anthony's Hospital in St. Louis, Biri said.

"He's doing fine," Biri said. "He's eating, sitting up, and he's got good color. It's our hope that he's back at the church in at least a couple weeks."

Sam Roethemeyer is pastor at Emanuel United Church of Christ in Jackson and president of the Jackson Ministerial Alliance. He has been a friend and colleague of Eftink for years.

"When I heard about the accident, my heart just sunk," he said. "I went to prayer immediately that he would be OK."

Roethemeyer said Eftink is a profound spiritual leader.

"He's very concerned about his flock, caring and works to bring the message of Christ to those in need," Roethemeyer said.

Highway Patrol Cpl. Don Larsen said the accident is still under investigation.

smoyers@semissourian.com

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