“Gratefulness to God for 100 Years of Blessings” will be theme for Solemn Novena to Saint Ann this year

SCRANTON – The Very Reverend Richard Burke, C.P., Rector, Saint Ann’s Monastery, has announced the theme for the 100th Anniversary of the Saint Ann’s Solemn Novena: “Gratefulness to God for 100 Years of Blessings.”

This special time of preaching God’s Word and praying for Saint Ann’s intercession begins on Wednesday, July 17, and concludes on Friday, July 26, the Feast of Saint Ann.

The first Solemn Novena was held in 1924, when the newly appointed Novena director, Father John Joseph Endler, C.P., planned and initiated this special nine day period of preaching and praying in preparation for the celebration of Saint Ann’s feast day.

This spiritual event has taken place every year since.

It survived the roaring 20’s, the stock market crash followed by the Great Depression years and the subsequent World War II years. The annual time of intensified praying welcomed the rise of continuing prayerful concerns in the war reconstruction years, the Korean conflict, the rise of baby boomers and the social unrest of the 60’s and 70’s.

Our way of praying shifted along with the changes in Church life and practices of the 80’s and following decades. The Solemn Novena continued to be held through the pandemic years thanks to the outdoor capabilities on the West Scranton parish campus.

Through it all, world and church intentions were joined together with family and personal needs in the fervent prayers of all who attended and prayed the Solemn Novena prayers.

The guest Passionist preachers for this year’s novena are Father Luis Daniel Guivas Genera, C.P., and Father Justin Nelson Alphonse, C.P.

Father Daniel was born in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico. He graduated from the Universidad Central de Bayamon with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He joined the Passionist community and professed his vows on July 11, 2015, after four years of theology studies at Saint Vincent de Paul Reginal Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida.

Father Daniel was ordained to the Passionist priesthood in January 2023. He just completed his assignment as Parochial Vicar of Immaculate Conception Passionist Parish in New York City and has begun his new ministry as Administrator of Saint Gemma’s Passionist Parish and Collegio in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Father Nelson was born and raised on Trichy, Tamilnadu, India. He attended the Passionist Minor seminary in Cochim, Kerala, India, was professed as a Passionist religious in 1996 and was ordained a Passionist priest in 2000 after four years of theology study in Bangalore, India. Father Nelson has served as Pastor of parishes in India, Birmingham, Ala., and is currently Pastor of Saint Agnes Passionist Parish in Louisville, Kent.

In light of our 100th anniversary, our preachers have chosen “Gratefulness to God for 100 years of Blessings” as the theme of the 2024 Solemn Novena. Seeking Saint Ann’s intercession and favors is a personal and family tradition reaching back for generations.

Every family has memories of favors granted to them, to the world and to our church through Saint Ann’s watchful concern over us. Remembering these gifts, our hearts become filled with gratitude. Gratitude is the seed bed of lasting joy, of deepened faith, of shared compassion, of service to the needy, of faithful love. Our Passionist preachers will share God’s Word on all of these and more during our novena services.

For more information on the novena, please click on: https://stannsnovena.org/

SCRANTON – Throughout its 100 years, the Solemn Novena to Saint Ann in West Scranton has reached out to many ethnic groups by inclusion of a Mass or Novena service in their native language.

As part of the Novena’s 100th anniversary outreach, Saint Ann’s is inviting all those who speak Spanish to join in seeking the intercession of Saint Ann, the Mother of God.

Each evening, July 17 through July 25, the 7:30 p.m. Mass and Novena service will be in Spanish this year.

The community will celebrate Saint Ann’s Feast Day in Spanish on Thursday, July 25, at 7:30 p.m. with Bishop Neil Tiedemann, C.P., as our guest celebrant and homilist.
The growing Hispanic community of the Diocese of Scranton and beyond is invited to join in seeking Saint Ann’s intercession during this special time of preaching and praying.

Our Solemn Closing of the Novena in English will be on Friday, July 26, at 7:30 p.m. with the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, serving as principal celebrant and homilist.

All are welcome to attend.

En estas muchas decadas la Solemne Novena se ha acercado a muchos grupos etnicos con la inclusion de servcios de Misa o Novena en su idioma nativo.

Como parte del 100 Aniversario, Santa Ana esta invitando a todos aquellos de habla hisopana a unirse buscando la interseccion de Santa Ana, la madre de la Madre de Dios.

Cada noche, desde el 17 hasta el 25 de julio a las 7.30pm los serivicios de Misa y Novena seran en espanol.

Estaremos celebrando el dia de fiesta de Santa Ana en espanol el dia Jueves 25 de julio a las 7.30pm con el Obispo Neil Tiedeman C. P., como nuestro invitado celebrando y dando la homilia.

Nuestros crecientes creyentes hispanos estan todos invitados a unirse buscando la interseccion de Santa Ana durante este tempo especial de predica y oracion.

Nuestro solemne clausure de Novena en Ingles sera el Viernes 26 de julio a las 7.30pm con nuestro Obispo Joseph Bambera, D.D. JCL celebrando y hacienda la homilia.

Todos estan bienvenido!

SCRANTON – In a powerful display of faith and fellowship, hundreds of Catholic women from around the Diocese of Scranton and beyond gathered for the annual ‘Refresh Your Faith’ Catholic Women’s Conference at Marywood University on June 8, 2024.

The day-long event featured several speakers, recitation of the Rosary, Eucharistic Adoration, the opportunity for Reconciliation, and Mass celebrated by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton.

A crowd of several hundred, energized women filled the ballroom at Marywood University for the 2024 ‘Refresh Your Faith’ Catholic Women’s Conference. (Photos/Mike Melisky)

“I think it’s an opportunity for women to get together and grow deeper in their faith,” Laurie Hanley of Saint Vincent de Paul Parish in Dingman Township said.

Hanley moved to Pike County in 2022 and attended the Catholic Women’s Conference for the first time last year after reading about it in The Catholic Light.

After being very impressed with the event, she volunteered to help with the planning committee this year.

“To be able to have these speakers and talented musicians share their love of God with us is amazing and then we can share that together and we can bring it back to our parishes,” she added.

The keynote speakers for this year’s conference included Father Justin Cinnante, O.Carm., a priest from Transfiguration Priory in Tarrytown, N.Y.; Father Giuseppe Maria Siniscalchi, CFR, who currently serves as the Local Servant (superior) of Saint Mary of the Assumption Friary in Newburgh, N.Y.; and Jackie Francois Angel, a singer/songwriter and worship leader from California.

Singer/songwriter Jackie Francois Angel performs the entrance song during Mass at the conference.

Each speaker shared powerful and personal stories about the transformative nature of God’s love.

“Only God can satisfy the desires of our hearts. No human being can do that. No amount of money or success or popularity can do that,” Angel said during her remarks. “We have a massive ache in our hearts for something more. We have a massive ache in our hearts for something that the world cannot give.”

“When a woman is fully alive with the love that comes from God, nothing can stop her, she is a force against the universe,” Father Giuseppe said. “She is powerful and once a woman has this love in her, nobody needs to tell her what to do, it just comes flowing out of her and no one is going to stop her.”

Fr. Justin Cinnante, O.Carm., delivers the keynote address during the conference June 8.

Christy Ghigiarelli of SS. Anthony and Rocco Parish in Dunmore found this year’s conference empowering because she saw so many other women ‘on fire’ with faith.

“It’s just this beautiful day where you truly get your faith refreshed. You listen to these amazing speakers, and you hear things presented in ways that you haven’t heard before,” Ghigiarelli explained. “You’re surrounded by this community of women that have an amazing love of Christ.”

Pati Pawlik of Saint Eulalia Parish in Roaring Brook Township called the conference a “treasure” because it brings so many women together to pray.

“It’s such a high-energy environment,” Pawlik said. “We feed off each other’s joys. We laugh, we cry, it’s just a feminine quality that we don’t get to experience every day in our normal lives and our normal work environments.”

Many participants described the experience as deeply enriching, citing the profound connections formed and the overwhelming sense of support and solidarity among fellow Catholic women.

“I think it’s so wonderful that women can lift each other up with our faith at the foundation of everything that we do in our day to day lives,” Dara Dirhan of Saint Maria Goretti Parish in Laflin added.

As the conference drew to a close, attendees departed with renewed spirits, fortified in their faith, and emboldened by the connections forged during a transformative day of fellowship. While the event may have concluded, its impact will undoubtedly resonate within the hearts and minds of all those who attended, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration on their continued journey of faith.

“This is something that everybody should come to. It really is a special time,” conference marketing committee spokesman Jackie Lewandoski said. “You’re reminded of how much God loves us and how special it is that we have him in our life … It really is the perfect day!”

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, celebrated the Diocese of Scranton’s annual Mass for Priest Jubilarians on June 6, 2024. Participating were, front row, from left: Rev. Samuel J. Ferretti (50 years); Rev. Peter J. O’Rourke (25 years); Msgr. Constantine V. Siconolfi (65 years); Bishop Bambera; Rev. Richard W. Beck (50 years); and Rev. Patrick J. McLaughlin (50 years). Back row, from left: Rev. Gerald W. Shantillo, Vicar General; Rev. Anthony J. Generose (25 years); Rev. John F. Poplawski (50 years); and Rev. John V. Polednak, Episcopal Vicar for Clergy. Three priests celebrating milestone anniversaries were unable to attend: Rev. John T. Albosta (60 years); Rev. Arbogaste Satoun (25 years) and Rev. Andrew R. Sinnott (25 years). (Photo/Mike Melisky)

SCRANTON – Ten priests, who have given 425 years of combined service to the Diocese of Scranton, were recognized for their selfless service on June 6, 2024, at the annual Mass for Priest Jubilarians.

“On behalf of the people of the Diocese of Scranton, I congratulate our jubilarians and I thank them, and all our priests, for their service to the Church and to the Lord Jesus who is its heart,” Bishop Joseph C. Bambera said during his homily. “I thank them for their commitment in joyful moments and in challenging times, I thank them for leading us through change and upheaval to harmony and peace, and I thank them for ever reminding us of God’s presence in our lives, in the great gift of the Eucharist, in the Word proclaimed, and in the Church, the People of God from among whom every priest is called.”

Monsignor Constantine V. Siconolfi, who was ordained to the priesthood in 1959, was honored for 65 years of service. The Reverend John T. Albosta was recognized for 60 years of spreading the Good News of the Gospel. Priests celebrating 50 year anniversaries included Rev. Richard W. Beck, Rev. Samuel J. Ferretti, Rev. Patrick J. McLaughlin and Rev. John F. Poplawski. The priests ordained in 1999, thus marking 25 years of service, included Rev. Anthony J. Generose, Rev. Arbogaste Satoun, Rev. Andrew R. Sinnott, and Rev. Peter J. O’Rourke.

“I am where the Lord has always wanted me to be,” Father Generose said following the Jubilee Mass.

Father Generose was ordained a priest at the age of 36 after having a career in the heating and plumbing industry. He has enjoyed being able to serve people in different places at different times.

“There are so many opportunities. I would say that availability is one of the great joys of the priesthood, walking with people in their lives and helping them if I could,” Father Generose explained.

During his 50 years in priestly ministry, which also involved serving as a Navy and Marine Corps Chaplain, Father Ferretti said his greatest joy has been working with young people. He taught for 11 years in our Catholic high schools.

“A lot of young people are confused, there are so many voices out there. Any opportunity you get to bring them back to Christ has been wonderful. There have been so many of them that I’ve been truly blessed in that sense,” Father Ferretti said.

After the Mass concluded, a line of well-wishers took photos and greeted Msgr. Siconolfi, who founded Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen in Scranton several decades ago.

As he reflected on his 65 years of priestly service, he says his greatest joy has been helping and serving the poor in the name of the Lord Jesus.

“When you read the Scriptures very carefully, you can see that our Lord Jesus was always very interested in the poor. He took care of the poor, he fed them, he healed them, he took care of them and he raised them to life, and I think the main message of the Gospel is to take care of the poor,” he explained.

Msgr. Siconolfi said he has always considered himself to be an instrument of Jesus.
“I’ve seen the hand of God very beautifully and very effectively in my life,” he added.

BLOSSBURG – The faithful of Holy Child Parish in Tioga County will celebrate the 150th anniversary of its secondary worship site – Saint Mary of Czestochowa Church in Blossburg – later this month.

On Sunday, June 23, 2024, parishioners and friends have been invited to a special celebration that will begin with Mass at 9 a.m. at Saint Mary’s Church and will be followed by a dinner at 3 p.m. in Saint Mary’s Hall.

Saint Mary of Czestochowa Church in Blossburg is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2024. Parishioners are planning an anniversary dinner to be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 23. (Photos/Eric Deabill)

“We’re going to have Polish foods and most of the people who I see on the list are people that went here when they were kids themselves. They’re all coming back,” parishioner Ann Marie Davis of Blossburg, said.

Davis is one of several people helping to plan the anniversary celebration for the church which was established on March 15, 1874. A sign marking that date hangs above the main entrance for the church.

“It is hard to believe because when you look at the history of this town there aren’t that many churches that are that old,” Davis added.

Saint Mary of Czestochowa Church is the first church in the Diocese of Scranton that was established for the faithful of Polish descent.

In 1874, Blossburg was the acknowledged center of all activities of the upper Tioga Valley coal basin, which included the adjoining towns of Morris Run, Arnot, Fall-Brook, Landrus, Klondike, Morris, Hoytville, Antrim, and Covington.

Although the many Polish Catholic immigrants who had settled in Blossburg attended its one Roman Catholic church, Saint Andrew’s, they had not mastered the English language or customs and longed to be able to continue their growth in faith in the native tongue.

A monument located outside of Saint Mary of Czestochowa Church recognizes it as the first of all parishes in the Diocese of Scranton to be established for the faithful of Polish descent on March 15, 1874.

A group of Tioga County Poles petitioned the Right Reverend William O’Hara, then Bishop of the Scranton Diocese, for permission to form a Polish-speaking Catholic congregation and erect a church at Blossburg. Bishop O’Hara readily agreed.

The original wood church that was constructed in the late 1800s was replaced by a new brick-edifice building in 1960. The cost at the time was $190,190.90.

All current parishioners have been invited to display pictures or memorabilia from Saint Mary’s at the upcoming dinner.

“One person brought a piece of the railing from our old church and it is very ornate. There are flowers on it and everything,” Davis said.

Reverend Bryan Wright, pastor, Holy Child Parish, is excited to recognize the important role Saint Mary’s has played in Tioga County history.

“In Blossburg, we had a lot of parishes here at one time and this building has made such a difference in the community. We’re celebrating that presence. We’re very blessed to be here, to still have this church, and we’re very grateful for the gift of the parish. It has been a blessing,” Father Wright said.

SIMPSON – More than 200 people filled the pews of Saint Michael’s Church one final time June 2, 2024, as a closing liturgy was held for the worship site which has served the Simpson community for more than 121 years.

“Our hearts are heavy, but we give thanks to God for having been able to encounter him in this sacred place,” lector Jean Yamialkowski said in welcoming the faithful to the 2 p.m. Mass. “Words from our Centennial Mass, spoken by Father Hilary Malinowski, continue to have meaning for us today. He said, ‘Here our faith life began, grew and continues to mature. As we look around and feel so much at home today, may we be warmed, enriched and empowered to take with us from this holy place, the most Sacred Presence of God to accompany us on our journey to our eternal home with him.’”

More than 200 people attended the Closing Mass for Saint Michael’s Church in Simpson, which was held on Sunday, June 2, 2024. (Photos/Eric Deabill)

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, served as principal celebrant and homilist for the closing liturgy. Father Seth D. Wasnock, V.F., Pastor, Saint Rose of Lima Parish and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Carbondale, and Father Joseph J. Mosley, Senior Priest, concelebrated the Mass, along with several other priests who were native sons of Saint Michael’s or who had served the church.

“Saint Michael’s Parish was founded to serve a growing community of predominantly Polish immigrants who journeyed to this portion of God’s kingdom to build a better life for themselves and their families,” Bishop Bambera said during his homily. “My dad’s grandparents, Jacob and Antoinette Pilny, were among its founding members. Ten years after it was established, my mom’s parents, John and Blanche Kucharski, arrived in White’s Crossing after immigrating from Poland a few years earlier and joined Saint Michael’s Parish.”

Bishop Bambera shared several personal, family memories of Saint Michael’s Church because he wanted the faithful to know that it was okay to be both sad and hopeful about the changes that are occurring.

During the Closing Ritual, Bishop Bambera processed to various parts of Saint Michael’s Church, including the baptismal font, thanking God for the great gift of faith.

“Let your minds wander a bit today. It’s a good thing to do, a healing experience for all of us, a moment to remember our lives in relationship to Saint Michael’s Church,” the bishop explained. “This day is not only a day of remembrance but a day of gratitude. Gratitude first for the abiding presence of God within us … Gratitude for the bond that exists among us as sharers in the one Body of Christ …. And gratitude for the privilege of being chosen by God to be his presence in our world.”

Following the distribution of Holy Communion, the closing ritual for the church took place. It involved Bishop Bambera and Deacon Patrick J. Massino processing to various parts of the worship site and offering specific prayers. They stopped at the baptismal font, confessional, Stations of the Cross, Statue of the Blessed Mother, Statue of Saint Michael the Archangel, ambo and altar.

Rev. Seth D. Wasnock, Pastor, and Joan Fendrock, Sacristan, lock the doors one final time.

Following the procession, all parishioners in attendance were invited to come into the sanctuary of the church one final time to reverence the altar with a bow or a kiss. They then proceeded to the back parking lot, after which time the doors of the church were locked for the final time by Joan Fendrock, who has served as the parish sacristan for more than two decades.

“I think everyone had a little hurt in their heart today, but we have to put it in the Lord’s hands. He will not abandon us. We have turned another chapter in our 121 years,” Fendrock said.

As the closing liturgy took place, Fendrock took Bishop Bambera’s advice, allowing her mind to reflect on the first Easter she celebrated in Saint Michael’s Church 56 years ago. At that time, the Mass was still celebrated in Polish – and to have Polish hymns incorporated into the closing Mass at points brought everything full circle – and put a smile on her face.

“The Lord will never abandon us. We may have trials and sadnesses and sorrows in our lives, but he is always there to carry us over them,” she added.

Parishioners recite a decade of the Rosary outside Saint Michael’s Church as they begin a Eucharistic Procession to Carbondale.

The decision to close Saint Michael’s Church came as part of the Vision 2030 Process, in which the parishioners of Saint Rose of Lima Parish and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish have been engaged for several years. When analyzing the priority drivers, it was determined that basic operational costs of Saint Michael’s averaged $66,000 annually and the offertory collected was insufficient to meet those needs, in addition to facility studies indicating the church would need more than $800,000 in maintenance over the next decade.

At the conclusion of the closing liturgy, Bishop Bambera led the Blessed Sacrament on a Eucharistic Procession. The faithful processed by vehicle to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, from which they processed on foot to Saint Rose of Lima Church where Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament took place, and a reception was held.

While enjoying refreshments, parishioners also got to enjoy a pictorial slideshow of memories from Saint Michael’s and Holy Trinity churches.

The Sunday 11:30 a.m. Mass which was normally held at Saint Michael’s Church will now be held at Saint Rose of Lima Church in Carbondale.

SCRANTON – The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, has announced that Joseph D. Strubeck has been named Diocesan Secretary for Development. Strubeck was selected from a number of highly qualified candidates following an extensive search process. He began his new position on May 20, 2024.

For the last four years, Strubeck has worked in the Institutional Advancement Division at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, serving most recently as the Director of Advancement Operations and Reporting. In that position, he supervised all gift and pledge processing, provided technical support, and successfully helped King’s College implement a new primary alumni and fundraising database.

“I’m enthusiastic about the future of our Church and excited to contribute to the mission of the Diocese of Scranton in this important role,” Strubeck said of his new position.

Strubeck has a master’s degree in theology and a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from The University of Scranton – and for the last several years has been teaching part-time in the King’s College philosophy department. He also has previous experience as a sales representative and business analyst.

“Fundraising and development are so often viewed as obligatory tasks. As someone who is mission-driven, some years ago, I never envisioned myself doing this kind of work. However, my own spiritual discernment has helped me come to view fundraising as ministry. I have found that fundraising provides unique opportunities to share the Good News and empower others to reflect upon their own unique connections to mission,” Strubeck explained. “Looking at all the good work that fundraising supports through Catholic ministries in the Diocese of Scranton, I look forward to helping the faithful throughout our region learn more about how they uniquely contribute to the mission and impact the lives of thousands each day.”

Strubeck’s skills and qualifications will be a tremendous asset to the Diocesan Development Office and all our parishes – as we work to expand our parish stewardship efforts and communicate the important funding that the Diocesan Annual Appeal provides for our local Catholic ministries.

“My past professional experiences have afforded me the opportunity to work in dynamic ways with and among others. I see the Secretary of Development role as a critical link supporting and helping to facilitate conversations that help us collectively care for those most in need throughout our Diocese,” he added. “In my own life, I’ve personally embraced Bishop Bambera’s call to serve through servant leadership and look forward to the opportunity to develop and deepen relationships with the faithful throughout our region. Building financial support for our Diocese over the next several years will be critical to fulfilling our obligations and sustaining Catholic ministries in the future. I firmly believe that every person matters, and that financial contributions large and small will help us not only sustain but help our Church grow in the coming years.”

In addition to his experience in Development, Strubeck has been a member of the Finance Council of Saint John the Evangelist Parish, Pittston, and is a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, John F. Kennedy Council 372, Pittston. Both Strubeck and his wife are the products of Catholic education – and their oldest son is currently a student at Saint Nicholas/Saint Mary School in Wilkes-Barre.

SCRANTON – The public is invited to celebrate and honor World Refugee Day!

On Saturday, June 22, 2024, everyone is invited to join local Scranton refugee communities for a time of sharing, learning, fellowship and celebration that honors global refugees. This year’s theme is “A World Where Refugees Are Always Welcomed,’ which focuses on the power of inclusion and solutions for refugees.

The free event will be held from 2-4 p.m. at Nay Aug Park in Scranton (on the Greenhouse side of Nay Aug Park). The celebration will include cultural music and dance performances, refreshments, giveaways, games and activities for kids.

World Refugee Day is an annual international day, designated by the United Nations, to celebrate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home countries to escape conflict or persecution. It is an opportunity to recognize the resilience and courage of millions of refugees around the world.

Several community agencies are working together to put together the 2024 World Refugee Celebration, including Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton, The University of Scranton, City of Scranton, United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Ignatian Volunteer Corps, S.T.A.R.S. Program at Marywood University, Islamic Center of Scranton, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, Congolese Community of Scranton, Bhutanese Cultural Foundation Scranton Association, Saigon Corner Vietnamese Restaurant and Pennsylvania Department of Education – Migrant Education Program, the Church of Saint Gregory, and the Hexagon Project.

On Saturday, June 22, 2024, everyone is invited to participate in a World Refugee Day celebration at Nay Aug Park (Mulberry Street entrance, across from GCMC and Everhart Museum) in Scranton from 2-4 p.m. The celebration will include cultural music and dance performances, refreshments, giveaways, games, and activities for kids. There are numerous community agencies working together to plan for this celebration. Pictured are, first row, from left: Digne Mbinga, Congolese Community Scranton; Ivanna Gleb, Catholic Social Services; Audrey Golosky, United Neighborhood Centers; Daysi Carreto, The University of Scranton; Camilla Sphabmixay, Catholic Social Services; Smriti Sharma, Bhutanese Cultural Foundation of Scranton Association; and Jelytza Lopez, Catholic Social Services. Second row, from left: Channel Kearse, City of Scranton; Ushu Mukelo, Congolese Community Scranton; Niyitanga Dedieumas, Catholic Social Services; Gulnar Siddiqi, Catholic Social Services & Islamic Center of Scranton; Fikile Ryder, Catholic Social Services; Julie Schumacher Cohen, The University of Scranton; Prem Subedi, Bhutanese Cultural Foundation of Scranton Association; Chandra Sitaula, Bhutanese Cultural Foundation of Scranton Association; Jenny Gonzalez, S.T.A.R.S. Program at Marywood University; and Michelle Rosler, S.T.A.R.S. Program at Marywood University.

SCRANTON – Two men ordained as transitional deacons for the Diocese of Scranton were reminded that they must serve generously – and make the example of Jesus’ life their own.

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, celebrated the Rite of Ordination of Deacons for Thomas J. Dzwonczyk and Andrew T. McCarroll May 25, 2024, at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton.

Thomas J. Dzwonczyk, left, and Andrew T. McCarroll lie prostrate on the floor of the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton in a gesture of solemn petition during the Rite of Ordination of Deacons on May 25, 2024. (Photos/Mike Melisky)

“I feel very blessed. There was a nervousness beforehand but as soon as we started to walk up that aisle to begin Mass, God was there, God was present and I was in the moment,” Rev. Mr. Andrew McCarroll said. “I really appreciated celebrating with everyone there in prayer.”

Several hundred family members, friends and fellow parishioners of the Ordinandi filled the Cathedral for the Ordination Mass.

“I feel incredible,” Rev. Mr. Thomas Dzwonczyk said. “It was just incredibly humbling to see so much support from friends and family and then to finally have the day arrive from so many years of study and formation, it is beyond words.”

During his homily, Bishop Bambera reminded both men that the cross becomes the measure by which Jesus showed his love for all.

“Jesus calls us to a selflessness in our love that knows no qualifications, conditions or limitations. Faced with such a command, it was no surprise that the first and daily challenge that we face as disciples is choice. Jesus chose to lay down His life for us. He did so freely because there was no greater way to show the depth of His love,” Bishop Bambera said. “For us, and for you, Tom and Andrew, despite your calling by the Lord himself, love is still always a choice that you and each of us must make time and time again. Love costs – but it is worth the investment.”

As deacons, both men can proclaim the Gospel, preach homilies, baptize, preside at weddings, funerals and other prayer services, assist the priest at the altar, and are called to be the living expression of the charity of the Church.

Reverend Mr. Michael L. Schultz from the Archdiocese of Louisville served as vesting deacon for Thomas Dzwonczyk and Reverend Mr. Gary J. Pstrak from the Diocese of Trenton served as vesting deacon for Andrew McCarroll.

“In short, God’s people will look to you to see Jesus. They will look to see Jesus in your prayerfulness, in your words, in your hard work, in the simplicity of your life, and in your love,” the bishop added. “In return for all that you give them, they will walk with you, they will pray for you, and they will support you every step of the way.”

During the Rite of Ordination, both Dzwonczyk and McCarroll were called forward by name, declaring their intention to be ordained to the Diaconate. They then laid prostrate on the floor of the Cathedral while those in attendance, through the intercession of all the saints, asked for God’s blessing. Bishop Bambera then laid his hands upon the head of both men, saying the Prayer of Ordination, after which they put on a diaconal stole and dalmatic and received a Book of the Gospels.

Both of the newly ordained deacons felt the importance of their call to service at different moments.

“Just to lie down on the floor during the Litany of the Saints, you just feel the weight of everyone’s prayers, everyone singing ‘Pray for Us,” McCarroll said. “I really felt the presence of the saints in the Cathedral, especially the saints of the parishes I have served at, my home parish of Saint Robert Bellarmine and Saint Aloysius Church, those two saints, as well as Saint Boniface and Saint Lawrence, where I’m serving now. They’ve been intercessors for me my entire journey.”

“Having my good friend, Deacon Michael Schultz (of the Archdiocese of Louisville) vest me with the stole and dalmatic, he was tearing up, and I was tearing up,” Dzwonczyk added. “By the Grace of God, I kept it together somewhat, but that was very powerful.”

As transitional deacons, both Dzwonczyk and McCarroll will spend the next year continuing with their seminary formation with the goal of – God willing – being ordained to the Sacred Priesthood next summer.

As both men left the Mass to greet family and friends, the recessional hymn, “Church of God, Elect and Glorious,” reverberated in the Cathedral.

“I know there are some big challenges ahead of me, to open the Scriptures and preach to the people, to minister and serve them, but I know God is present every step of the way,” McCarroll explained. “I cannot thank enough all of our priests, our deacons, our bishop, all of the lay ministers and especially the People of God who have been supporting us and praying for us.”

Dzwonczyk echoed those sentiments, saying, “I’m just overwhelmed by the support. I wouldn’t be here without all of the people who have been praying for me and sending me well wishes.”

POCONO PINES – On May 25, 2024, Reverend Paschal Mbagwu, Administrator, Saint Maximilian Kolbe Parish, blessed a newly installed memorial to the unborn on the grounds of the parish located on Pocono Crest Road.

Knights of Columbus Council 13752 obtained the memorial after it became available through parish consolidations, with the assistance of the Yanac Funeral Home in Mount Pocono.

A place was prepared by members of Our Lady of the Lake Council.