Category: Diocese of Scranton News

SCRANTON – Representatives from nearly a dozen parish communities across the Diocese of Scranton gathered on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, for a Hispanic Ministry Convocation that marked a key step in the process of creating a new Diocesan Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry.

The Convocation, held at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Scranton, brought together parish leaders, pastors, and the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, to review months of consultation and discern concrete goals and action steps for the growing Hispanic community.

“The purpose of the Convocation is the last, final step in the consultative process for our Hispanic Ministry Pastoral Plan that we are working on,” Felix Martinez, Diocesan Director of Hispanic Ministry, said.

Over the last year, parish “consultative assemblies” have been held in each community where Hispanic ministry is present, allowing parishioners to identify their most pressing needs and priorities.

The consultations consistently highlighted themes such as spiritual growth, cultural integrity, family life, leadership development, and parish integration.

“We wanted to hear from them to see what are the most important objectives and needs of the Hispanic community,” Martinez added. “Most of the goals that were proposed, many agreed that they should be included in the pastoral plan. We’re really happy that we’ve made it to this point and are looking forward to the outcome.”

In between morning and afternoon work sessions, participants gathered for Mass at the Cathedral of Saint Peter. Bishop Bambera preached on the vital role that Hispanic Catholics play in the life of our local Church.

Calling the gathering “a day of great pride,” the Bishop thanked participants for their “hard work and effort” in shaping the pastoral plan and emphasized that the Hispanic community is “a vital part of our Diocese.”

“The depth of your faith both encourages and challenges all believers,” he said in his homily.

The Bishop reflected on the Church’s long-standing commitment to migrants and, drawing on the recent Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi te of Pope Leo XIV, reminded attendees that migrants and refugees are “brothers and sisters to be welcomed, respected, and loved.”

While addressing Convocation participants outside of Mass, Bishop Bambera highlighted a recently released special message on immigration from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

“We rarely, as bishops, issue special messages,” he said, explaining that the last such statement was issued 13 years ago.

“We understand what so many of our brothers and sisters are going through in our land today,” Bishop Bambera said. “You need to know that we stand with you and for you.”

Throughout the day, parish representatives had conversation and discussion to assess proposed goals and identify practical steps that can better serve Hispanic Catholics and strengthen parish life.

For Evelyn Bodden of Saint Matthew Parish, East Stroudsburg, the convocation was both informative and encouraging.

“The warmth and the love that they’re showing for the Hispanics was very impressive, very touching, and we’re all on board,” she said. “It has been a great day here. All the parishes together, getting to know all the deacons and priests. It is an amazing experience to see the love of Christ among us.”

Irene Rodriguez from Most Holy Trinity Parish, Cresco, said her discussions focused especially on children, catechesis, and better connections among parishes.

“We’re deciding what is best for our churches, for the sake of our children and the Hispanic community,” Rodriguez said. “We need the smaller parishes to come together, especially those that do not have Spanish speaking pastors or Mass. We need to have them come with us and keep us in communication.”

Martinez said the pastoral plan will incorporate the goals affirmed at the Convocation.

“The Pastoral Plan that we’re working on is very important,” he said.

Once finalized, the Hispanic Ministry Pastoral Plan will guide Diocesan and parish efforts to accompany Hispanic Catholics, foster greater integration in parish life, support families and youth, and promote leadership and service throughout the Diocese of Scranton.

KINGSTON – Parishioners of two parishes in Luzerne County recently came together in a unique way – participating in various service projects to honor the 40th anniversary of their pastor.

Between Sept. 15 – Oct. 24, the parishes of Saint Ignatius Loyola, Kingston, and Holy Family, Luzerne, held a ’40 Days of Service’ effort to recognize the 40th anniversary of Monsignor David L. Tressler.

The effort started with a simple idea, which led to conversations among parishioners, and eventually led to a joint committee being formed with people from both parishes.

“Our first committee meeting was in July, as this effort required the bulk of planning early on,” committee member Debbie Lyons said. “People responded very graciously knowing that this would honor Monsignor in a thoughtful and unique way.”

With no pressure on anyone to participate, parishioners were provided a list of 18 ideas and opportunities that they could consider – including planned service dates at Saint Vincent de Paul Kitchen in Wilkes-Barre or the Weinberg Food Bank in Jenkins Township.

Individuals were also invited to perform any service project that was particularly meaningful to them.

Throughout the 40 days, countless acts of kindness were carried out – including daily prayers, rosaries, novenas – to honor Monsignor Tressler. People documented their plans and turned them in, so they could be shared with Monsignor Tressler.

“People obviously have great love and appreciation for their pastor, who has shown them his sincere pastoral approach either in their time of need or throughout daily life in the parishes,” Lyons explained. “I personally heard many stories of their gratitude and having a way to ‘give back’ in a unique way as parish communities.”

At the beginning of November, Monsignor Tressler published a page-long reflection in the parish bulletin, expressing his “profound humility and heartfelt gratitude” for all those who participated in the 40 Days of Service project.

“The response from our parish communities was overwhelming – a radiant testament to the generosity, compassion, and deep faith that dwell within our hearts,” Monsignor Tressler wrote. “Your prayers, acts of kindness, and generous offerings of time, talent, and treasure reflect the living faith of our parishes.”

Some of the material generosity and service given to the community as part of the ’40 Days of Service’ project included:

• Donations to Saint Vincent de Paul Kitchen, Holy Family Food Pantry, Weinberg Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, and Fork Over Love

• Collections of school supplies, backpacks, and books, along with monetary and book donations to the Hoyt Library supporting students and lifelong learners

• Contributions to the Butcher Scholarship Fund and sponsorships for religious education students ensuring that the light of faith continues to shine in the next generation

• Blood donations at Holy Redeemer High School

• 400 meals were donated through Fork Over Love to children at Head Start and the Catholic Youth Center in Wilkes-Barre to feed children in Msgr. Tressler’s name

• Personal care items delivered to veterans at Saint Hedwig’s Veterans Village, as well as other veterans in the local community

• Donations of money and gift cards which were provided to the parishes to assist those in greatest need in the community

Organizers of the ’40 Days of Service’ effort found that many parishioners of the two linked parishes were able to deepen their relationships while serving side-by-side.

“New friendships were made, parishioners joined in and worked well together, people took ownership in many different ways, all with a common mission of service and love. The campaign to honor one special person became a vehicle for serving many others in our local community,” Lyons stated.

Because of the huge outpouring of love and support through this volunteer effort, parish leaders have already started conversations about how to keep the momentum going.

“Our ministries have always provided donations to those in need, and because people felt so good going into the community to give their time and energy with this effort, our initial plan is to select one location to start, perhaps yearly. Both parishes would come together in service, youth and adults,” Lyons added.

Overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, Monsignor Tressler also encouraged parishioners to continue their gestures of mercy and love, which he called the “true heartbeat of our faith.”

“Each (act of kindness) – whether seen or unseen – has helped ensure that the Gospel message of Jesus Christ remains alive and active in our parishes,” Monsignor Tressler wrote.

EAST STROUDSBURG – On a recent Saturday afternoon, the smell of meatballs and sauce filled the air inside the church hall at Saint Matthew Parish. Conversation and laughter were also heard as people from all walks of life shared a meal together – neighbors, families, and even those experiencing homelessness.

With a similar scene playing out on every Thursday and Saturday – the importance of the parish’s community meal is clear and more important than ever.

For some guests, the meals are a refuge from the streets. For others, they are a cure for loneliness or provide a way to stretch limited budgets as food prices rise.

“I’m 81 years old now, and I thought my life would be getting easier as I got older, but it’s not,” Irene Shields, a longtime East Stroudsburg resident who comes to the parish for meals each week, said. “Between the high rent and high food costs, there is no money left for anything.”

Living only a block and a half away from the church, Shields feels loved and cared for by its parishioners.

“It is a great relief to just get out of the house sometimes and then to be fed, I don’t have to cook, I don’t have to clean,” she said.

Saint Matthew Parish has offered a community meal for more than a decade, beginning with a single Saturday dinner, but since the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has expanded to three meals a week, serving more than 14,000 meals each year.

Guests can currently enjoy lunch and dinner on Saturday, as well as a Thursday evening meal.

For Charlie C., who once experienced homelessness, the meal program became a place of stability and even healing.

“In 2015, I lost somebody. She died and I lost my mind for a little while,” he explained. “Being homeless around here, and having places like this to come, it is really great. You can stay here all day. It is really great to have.”

Others, like Patty Hill of East Stroudsburg, relied on the meals as food assistance became harder to access at the beginning of November when SNAP benefit funding issues grabbed headlines.

“We have to rely on the churches and the food pantries for food if we want to survive,” she said.

At the heart of the ministry is Lisa Hoey, the parish’s community meal director, and a team of volunteers who have led the program for years.

“The need for this program continues to grow within the community. It’s not just about the homeless. It’s about families, it’s about the elderly. We see quite a mix here at Saint Matthew’s and we’re very blessed with every one of them,” Hoey said.

On Saturdays, guests are invited to stay the whole afternoon in the church hall – to rest, share fellowship, and even watch a movie between meals.

“They’re able to come in, drop their stuff and sit and socialize,” she added. “They’re not being chased out after they finish a cup of coffee.”

Under Hoey’s direction, teams of volunteers take turns preparing and serving meals each week. Some people cook or bake, while others simply spend time playing cards or talking to guests.

“It’s an incredible group of people. They’re very, very giving of their time and talent,” she explained.

For Father Don Williams, pastor of Saint Matthew Parish, the community meal program is a direct expression of the Gospel in action.

“Nothing that we do upstairs in our beautiful church would make any sense unless we’re connecting it with a life of service,” Father Don said. “Opening our doors to invite the homeless in and members of our community to serve the poor and those who are struggling really gives substance to the Eucharist that we celebrate.”

Father Don said one of the most beautiful parts of the program is seeing both parishioners and those in need come together at the same tables.

“It is a blessing to the parish,” he added. “It’s messy and hard and it’s not always perfect … but everyone is treated with dignity. We welcome each other as Christ.”

Father Brian J.T. Clarke, assistant pastor, added that at the end of the Gospel of Saint Matthew, we hear how God will look at each of us – whether we fed the hungry, clothed the naked and cared for those in need. He said the parishioners of Saint Matthew Parish consistently strive to do that.

“We recognize that times are tough for so many people economically and in their families,” Father Clarke said. “We hope that everyone knows that they can find refuge, warmth, and a nutritious meal here.”

SCRANTON – The Cathedral of Saint Peter was filled with youthful energy Nov. 2, 2025, as young adults from across the Diocese of Scranton gathered for the tenth annual Leave a Mark Mass.

This year’s liturgy, celebrated by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, also held special significance because it not only marked the beginning of National Vocation Awareness Week, but also coincided with the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day).

Launched in 2016 in response to Pope Francis’ challenge at World Youth Day in Poland – urging young people not to “vegetate” through life but to “leave a mark” on the world – the annual Mass has quickly become popular with teenagers as they think about how God is calling them to serve the Church.

“Open your hearts to the power and presence of God, to reflect upon the ways in which the Lord is calling you to serve the Church and to walk as His disciples,” Bishop Bambera said in his greeting at the beginning of Mass.

Jian Carlo Capellan, a young adult from Saint Matthew Parish in East Stroudsburg, attended the Leave a Mark Mass for the first time this year and called the experience “awesome.”

“It was beautiful to be able to go in the Cathedral,” Capellan said. “I think it’s very important that youth come together and congregate together to learn more about God and his teachings.”

This was also the first Leave a Mark Mass that Alexandra Villarreal, a parishioner of Saint Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Scranton, attended.

“Connecting with teens my age really opens new ground to connecting with God and how we can build on the church,” she said.

Sophia Petrus, a university sophomore, said returning to the Leave a Mark Mass for a second year felt like coming home.

“I came here for the first time last year and I met so many great people. I met the Capuchin Sisters of Nazareth and I decided in a week to go on a retreat with them,” Petrus said.

Father Alex Roche, Diocesan Secretary for Clergy Formation and Diocesan Director of Vocations and Seminarians served as homilist for the Leave a Mark Mass.

Reflecting on both All Souls’ Day and the call to discipleship, Father Roche offered a reflection on the ancient phrase memento mori, which means “remember your death.”

He challenged all people attending the Mass to keep their focus on what truly endures.

“So many of the things that we spend so much of our time worrying about and obsessing over, simply don’t matter in the end,” Father Roche said. “What matters is how we follow our call, how each, in our own unique way, brought God’s peace, beauty, hope and love into the world.”

Following Mass, young adults gathered at the Diocesan Pastoral Center for a reception featuring food trucks from The Greek Shack and All Belgium. As they ate, those in attendance also got to learn more about vocations to religious life or the priesthood if they were interested.

Liam Barry, who just entered Saint Andrew’s College Seminary in South Orange, N.J., believes the Leave a Mark Mass is an important event to build up vocations to the priesthood.

“I think it’s very important for young people to take an active role in the church because we are the future of the church,” Barry stated.

SCRANTON – The faithful of Mary, Mother of God Parish gathered on Sunday, Nov. 9, for a special Mass honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Patriotic touches throughout the 11 a.m. Mass celebration created a celebration not only rooted in faith – but also in gratitude.

While many parishes throughout the Diocese of Scranton commemorate Veterans Day with special liturgies, this community goes above and beyond, not only recognizing veterans during Mass but also reaching out with gifts, visits to the homebound, and a home-cooked meal for residents of the nearby Saint Francis Commons veterans facility.

“We have the freedom to worship, or not worship, because of those who sacrificed so much. They gave so much of their lives and many never came home. It is the least we can do. We’ll do this every year,” Father Cyril D. Edwards, pastor of Mary, Mother of God Parish, said. “It’s a way to teach patriotism, to teach gratitude in the context of worship. It was really beautiful. We had a huge crowd at the Mass.”

Before the liturgy began, there was a moving procession that featured eight parish veterans carrying flags representing each branch of the military.

Seeing one of the veterans, Adam Ambrogi, who was accompanied by his granddaughter, Victoria Siess, brought many in the crowd to tears.

“I was crying like a baby,” Donna Zupp, a member of the parish’s Service and Coordinating Team, admitted. “Some of these gentlemen have been doing it for a couple of years. Sadly, we have had a couple who have done it that are no longer with us or weren’t able to carry the flag.”

Other parish veterans who participated in the procession were Larry Butler, Bob Jones, Vince Carden, Joe O’Connor, Mike Gavin, Jerry Walsh, and Joe Fadden.

In the pews, even the youngest parishioners joined in the celebration, waving small American flags.

“The service and community teams were looking for a special event that would have a powerful impact on all different ages. We owe our veterans an infinite amount of gratitude,” Father Edwards explained. “Seeing people crying as I walked down the aisle at the end of Mass, you can see that they were touched.”

Jerry Walsh, a parishioner and veteran of the Army Reserves’ Signal Corps 305, said he was “very honored” to participate.

“I really appreciated everybody that was in the church,” he said. “I know they were very pleased to see the flags and the way we presented them.”

The celebration didn’t end with Mass. Parish volunteers prepared gift bags for local veterans who attended. They also delivered 20 bags to parish veterans who are homebound or in nursing homes. Each bag included a homemade scarf, a grocery store gift card, and chocolate – small tokens meant to remind recipients that their service is never forgotten.

At the back of the church, a “Table of Thanks” offered parishioners a chance to write messages of gratitude, which will remain on the altar throughout November.

“My son is a captain in the United States Army Reserves, so this is something that is very dear to my heart,” Jennifer Pitts, a parish volunteer who helped lead the committee that organized the event, said. “It was very emotional today. It was beautiful.”

The parish’s outreach also extends to Saint Francis Commons, a Scranton veterans’ facility operated by Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton.

While parish volunteers regularly visit the facility with coffee and donuts, the Marian Society of the parish prepared and served a “Thanksgiving-style” dinner there on Nov. 12 – one more way to express gratitude.

“It is a blessing to take care of them and to be able to honor them,” Zupp said.

EXETER – More than 30 young adults from across the Diocese of Scranton gathered Thursday evening, Nov. 13, at Sabatini’s Bottle shop for the latest Theology on Tap session. Theology on Tap is a monthly series designed to offer young adults a place for faith, conversation, and community.

This month’s gathering took on special significance as it featured the Diocese’s two newly ordained priests, Father Thomas Dzwonczyk, and Father Andrew McCarroll.

Instead of offering traditional witness talks, the priests took part in an open question-and-answer session, inviting attendees to ask anything about their discernment, seminary formation, and life in ministry.

Bridget Guarnieri, who helps coordinate the Theology on Tap series, said the change in format was intended to spark more engagement.

“It gave us a chance to get to know them better and gave them a chance to tell their story,” she said.

The approach worked. A wide variety of questions were asked and the candid responses surprised those in attendance.

“Hearing the challenges that they have to go through, like they said, their job is not just Sunday. It is every day. It’s midnight hours. I think tonight really opened up everybody’s eyes to what it is like to be a priest, and I think we gained a deeper respect for their vocation.”

The Theology on Tap sessions provide a chance for young adults to have drinks, eat pizza, and create a shared sense of community.

“I think community as Catholics is truly important,” Joseph Merolla, a parishioner of the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton, said. “Social media claims to bring people together digitally, but in reality, I think it leads to isolation, so having events like this really give Catholics a chance to connect with one another.”

Gina Morgese, a parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in Carbondale, agreed.

“It is great to be around the energy of the young church and just be reminded that we are not alone,” she said. “I get to connect with people my age who are passionate about our Lord.”

For first-time attendee Lucas Popielski, a parishioner of Saint Gregory Parish in Clarks Green, the night offered him a new perspective of the newly ordained priest he sees at his parish each week.

“It was nice to see the priest outside of the church, doing something a little different than what I’m used to seeing him do,” Popielski explained.

Theology on Tap sessions follow a college semester schedule, so there will be one more event this year.

The final session of 2025 will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, and will feature Rob Williams, Executive Director of Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen in Scranton. Williams will speak on the theme, “Christ no longer has a body but yours,” focusing on service and involvement in local ministries.

Attendees are invited to bring donations such as food items, gloves, and socks to support individuals in need during the winter months.

SCRANTON – With prayers of thanksgiving and deep gratitude, the Diocese of Scranton celebrated its annual Jubilee Mass for Women and Men Religious on Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, at the Cathedral of Saint Peter.

The Mass honored 23 religious sisters and brothers who are marking milestone anniversaries in consecrated life this year – accounting for a combined 1,415 years of faithful service to God and the Church.

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, served as principal celebrant and homilist for the Jubilee Mass. The Bishop expressed heartfelt appreciation to the jubilarians for their lifelong witness of discipleship and prayer – which has spanned 25, 50, 60, 70 and even 75 years in some cases.

“What a blessing we’ve been given in all of you,” Bishop Bambera said. “More than you realize or appreciate, you continually challenge us to trust in the mercy, love and forgiveness of God – something that many of us in the Church forget, all too often.”

In his homily for the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Bishop reflected on the Gospel call to authentic discipleship, reminding those gathered that faith must always be lived with integrity and compassion.

“There is a very simple message that I hope we will all take from today’s Gospel,” the Bishop said. “Jesus calls us to live our lives with integrity. He calls us to give the beliefs that we profess a life.”

Drawing upon a personal story from his visit to Cape Coast Castle in Ghana, a former slave fortress, Bishop Bambera spoke of the “disconnect” that can sometimes exist between what we profess as Christians and how we live our lives.

As he looked at the jubilarians seated in front of him, the Bishop thanked them for boldly proclaiming the Gospel message in a world that far too often fails to embrace it.

“Your commitment to work for justice for the marginalized – immigrants, the poor, those held captive today by greed and sexual exploitation, and all those oppressed by far too many who deem themselves righteous – provides us with a unique and powerful witness to the presence of God at work in our world today in 2025,” Bishop Bambera added.

Among those celebrating jubilees this year is Sister Mary Theresa Wojcicki, a Sister of Christian Charity, who is marking 50 years of religious life. Originally from Great Meadows, N.J., Sister Mary Theresa now ministers at Saint Jude School in Mountain Top.

“The greatest joy that I have had was to be able to work with children and bring them to Jesus,” she said.

Reflecting on her vocation, Sister Mary Theresa shared, “I was impressed with the Sisters of Christian Charity in grade school. I saw that they were cheerful, always happy, and ready to serve – and I wanted to follow that charism.”

Sister Elizabeth (Betty) Bullen, a Sister, Servant of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, is celebrating 60 years of religious life this year.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Sister Betty spent much of her ministry in North Carolina before returning to live in Scranton. She describes her ministry as a lifelong adventure in faith and friendship.

“My greatest joy has been getting to meet amazing people who are different than I was and being able to expand my understanding of cultures and faiths,” she said.
Sister Mary Eleanor Thornton, a Sister of Mercy, who is celebrating 70 years of religious life, said her greatest joy has been spending decades ministering to the poor through social service centers, food programs, and parish outreach.

“It was such a joy and an honor (to serve the poor). God used me to collect food, furniture, and clothing that the poor would need,” she said. “I loved gathering volunteers who would help me.”

Looking back on seven decades of service, Sister Mary Eleanor found special meaning in Bishop Bambera’s homily and his reminder that we can’t just call ourselves Christians; we really must live what Jesus Christ wanted us to do.

“It is all God doing it in us. God gives us the gifts,” she explained. “I’m just grateful to the Sisters of Mercy that they have a fourth vow – to serve the poor, the sick and the uneducated – and that they were willing to let me do the things I could do for the poor.”

SCRANTON – The Diocese of Scranton has welcomed three new Echo Apprentices as part of its ongoing collaboration with the University of Notre Dame.

Now entering its third cohort in the Diocese, this unique two-year program allows the graduate-level students to combine academic studies with actual parish-based ministry, helping to prepare the young adult Catholics for leadership roles in the church.

In August, Veronica Hill, Kim Berning, and Katie James all arrived in northeastern Pennsylvania from various parts of the country, bringing their faith and enthusiasm.

Each of the new Echo Apprentices will be working in a parish or ministry setting and will be mentored by local clergy.

VERONICA HILL

Placement: Saint John the Evangelist Parish, Pittston
Hometown: Glendale, AZ
Home Diocese: Tucson

With a background in biology and biochemistry, Veronica Hill brings a scientific mind and a missionary heart to her ministry.

A graduate of the University of Arizona, Veronica has experience leading weekly Bible study programs and even spent last summer as a summer missionary in Philadelphia where she cultivated relationships with the homeless.

She was drawn to the Echo Program for its unique combination of theology coursework and hands-on parish experience.

“It is meaningful to listen and learn in the classroom,” she shared, “but to have the opportunity to teach in schools and work in parishes as part of our formation takes this degree to the next level.”

At Saint John the Evangelist Parish, Veronica is eager to explore many facets of ministry – from senior outreach and religious education to social justice projects.

“The parish community has already made me feel so welcome and I cannot wait to see what the Lord has prepared for these next two years,” she added.

KIM BERNING

Placement: King’s College Campus Ministry, Wilkes-Barre
Hometown: Lenexa, KS
Home Diocese: Kansas City

Kim Berning arrives in the Diocese of Scranton with a robust background in ministry, accounting, and leadership.

A graduate of Creighton University with degrees in accounting and management and a theology minor, Kim spent time with the Apostles of the Interior Life in Texas and Italy and has worked extensively with youth and family RCIA.

“I chose the Echo Program because it offers an opportunity for in-depth study and challenge, enabling Echo students to actively share what they learn,” she said. “I believe this program prepares students for a career in ministry, but more importantly it prepares students to embrace the vocation of ministry.”

At King’s College, Kim is diving into a vibrant community of students and will be involved in guiding OCIA, leading retreats, assisting with liturgies, and mentoring through faith-sharing groups like Sisters in Faith.

“Working with college students is a unique experience that I’m enjoying,” she said. “The King’s community has been incredibly welcoming and it’s exciting to join the campus ministry team as they move into a new space.”

Though she’s new to Pennsylvania, Kim is already making the most of it.

“I’ve loved exploring the culture, even taking a coal mining tour and discovering the area through hikes,” she explained.

KATIE JAMES

Placement: Christ the King Parish, Archbald
Hometown: Webster, MA
Home Diocese: Worcester

With a degree in computer science and a minor in mathematics from Champlain College in Vermont, Katie James is no stranger to logic and systems. But it is her heart for ministry and formation that led her to say “yes” to being an ECHO Apprentice.

“After serving as a Totus Tuus missionary – a Catholic summer catechetical youth program – I discovered a deep desire to grow in my knowledge of God through the study of theology,” Katie explained. “Echo stood out to me because it combines rigorous theological study with hands-on ministry experience.”

At Christ the King Parish in Archbald, Katie will be focused on catechesis, youth ministry, and family faith formation. She is particularly passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them to encounter Christ in daily life.

“I am incredibly excited to be serving at Christ the King Parish,” Katie explained. “As an early admit to the Echo Program, I spent over a year waiting to receive my diocesan and parish placement. During that time, I prayed intentionally each day for my future community members, mentor, and parish … I’ve already seen so many of those prayers beautifully answered.”

Having driven past Scranton countless times on family road trips, Katie now finds herself happily settled in the very place she once simply passed by.

“It’s a bit surreal,” she joked. “I had no idea I’d one day get to call this place home!”

MOUNTAIN TOP – Parishioners filled Saint Jude Church for three nights in late October as the Mountain Top community celebrated its annual parish mission in honor of its patron, Saint Jude, the patron saint of hope and impossible causes.

The three-night mission, held Oct. 26-28, centered on the theme “Hope in the Body of Christ” – echoing both the Church’s ongoing Jubilee Year of Hope and the recent National Eucharistic Revival. Each evening focused on a unique aspect of that theme: “It is the Body of Christ,” “You are the Body of Christ,” and “We are the Body of Christ.”

The opening Mass was celebrated by Father Tom Dzwonczyk, a newly ordained priest for the Diocese of Scranton who once served Saint Jude Parish as a seminarian and deacon. The second evening featured a Holy Hour with Adoration, music, confessions, and a talk by Father Stephen Robbins, Associate Vocation Director for the Diocese of Camden, N.J. The mission concluded on the Feast of Saint Jude, with Mass celebrated by Father Joe Evanko, pastor, followed by a parish potluck dinner.

“The mission continues the spirit of the Eucharistic Revival and reminds us that not only do we get to receive the Body of Christ – but we too get to participate in the Body of Christ as a community,” Sean Savage, Director of Faith Formation, said. “Particularly coming out of COVID, we’ve noticed that people come to Mass, but we lost that communal element of being together.”

Attendees said the mission offered the opportunity for both spiritual renewal and community fellowship.

Mary Ann Wallace, a new parishioner of Saint Jude Parish, found the Monday night Adoration to be very moving with its music.

“It’s just wonderful to see everybody turn out,” Wallace stated. “We have three Masses at this church. We know everybody that goes to the 4 p.m. Mass on Saturday, but we don’t know the people that come on Sunday, so it was a nice opportunity to meet other people.”

Thomas Lavan, a parishioner of Our Lady Help of Christians Parish (Saint Mary’s), agreed.

“I think it is a good way to get people together and that is what church is all about, community,” Lavan said.

As Saint Jude Parish prepares for Advent, they are hoping that parishioners remain engaged.

“We want people to not just run out of church. We want them to be able to stay in our beautiful narthex, to be able to gather and commune together,” Savage said. “That is the aim of this (mission), to remind people of ‘who’ they are receiving, ‘who’ they are becoming, and how ‘we’ should interact together as the Body of Christ.”

CONYNGHAM – The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Fatima Council 8613, of Saint John Bosco Church in Conyngham, and Good Shepherd Church in Drums, recently held a Coats for Kids Drive for the needy of the greater Hazleton area.

More than 80 new coats were donated by the Council.

Council members are currently collecting items for this year’s Cross Catholic Outreach ‘Box of Joy’ program. This marks the sixth year that the Council has joined with Cross Catholic Outreach to bring smiles and hope to children who might otherwise go without a Christmas gift.

The Knights will also sponsor a holiday blood drive on Thursday, Dec. 11 in the Saint John Bosco gym. All are invited to make an appointment.

The Conyngham Council has been named a Star Council for the third year in a row.

Men from the greater Hazleton area are welcome to become members. The Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. in Saint John Bosco Hall.