Category: Diocese of Scranton News

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Pope Leo XIV celebrated Pentecost by highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in his repeated calls for peace in recent months, saying the spirit also guides the Church to truth amid a world marked by war, division and ideological fragmentation.

During Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope said the Holy Spirit continues Christ’s work in the world by restoring peace through forgiveness and transforming fear and confusion into communion with God and others.

“Pentecost truly appears as the feast of the New Covenant, the Covenant between God and all the peoples of the world,” the pope said May 24 in his homily marking the end of the Easter season.

Reflecting on the Gospel passage of Christ appearing to the apostles after the resurrection, Pope Leo said Jesus restored peace between God and humanity through his Paschal Mystery and poured that peace into the world through the Holy Spirit.

“This peace stems from forgiveness and leads us to forgiveness,” he said, emphasizing that Jesus first offered forgiveness even after being “betrayed, condemned and crucified.”

“God’s holy law is inscribed in our hearts, engraved by the spirit with letters of love in the flesh of Christ and in his body the Church,” Pope Leo said. “This law is the rule of peace: It is the twofold commandment of love that the spirit reminds us of with every heartbeat.”

Turning to the Church’s mission, the pope said Christians are called to continue proclaiming Christ through acts of mercy, virtue and witness in daily life. Calling the faithful “coworkers of the Gospel,” he said the Holy Spirit transforms believers into agents of reconciliation and hope.

“The work of God, therefore, is each one of us, who came here today from all parts of the world, invited to the Lord’s table, gathered to listen to his word and called to bear witness to it everywhere,” he said.

The pope also described the Holy Spirit as the source of unity and truth within the Church, warning against “partisanship, hypocrisy and fads that obscure the light of the Gospel.”

While acknowledging that some changes in the modern world have brought “error and violence,” Pope Leo said the Holy Spirit continues to renew humanity and introduce salvation.

“The Church’s mission bears witness to this offer, thereby transforming the world’s confusion into communion with God and among ourselves,” he said.

Concluding his homily, the pope prayed for the Holy Spirit to free the world from war, misery and sin.

“Dear friends, with fervent hearts, let us pray today that the spirit of the Risen One may save us from the evil of war, which is overcome not by a superpower, but by the omnipotence of love,” he said.

In his Regina Caeli address after Mass, Pope Leo said the Holy Spirit “opens doors,” saying it gave the apostles the courage to leave the locked room following Jesus’ death and proclaim Christ.

The pope said the Holy Spirit opens three doors: the door to encountering God personally, the door of the Church so it can remain welcoming to all and engaged with the modern world, and the door of the human heart, overcoming “selfishness, mistrust and prejudice.”

“We need to rediscover God as the father who loves us, so that we can form a Church where everyone feels at home, and build a fraternal world where peace reigns among all peoples,” he said from the window of the Apostolic Palace, a day before releasing his first encyclical “Magnifica Humanitas” on the care of the human person in the time of artificial intelligence.

After the Regina Caeli prayer, Pope Leo commemorated the Day of Prayer for the Church in China and prayed for victims of a mining accident in northern China that reportedly killed 82 people. He also prayed for Christian communities in the Holy Land, Lebanon and across the Middle East suffering due to the ongoing conflict.

(OSV News) – Catholic bishops in Uganda have urged the people to remain calm after the government postponed the annual Martyrs Day celebrations, following an Ebola outbreak in the East African region.

The epidemic caused by Bundibugyo virus — one of the several that cause the disease in humans — has hit Congo and Uganda.

By May 20, at least 139 people had died out of the suspected 600 cases in Congo. Of the 600 suspected cases, the WHO said 51 had been confirmed in the country’s northern provinces of Ituri and North Kivu.

An American doctor who contracted Ebola in Congo has been flown to Germany for treatment, along with his wife and four children. Peter Stafford, a surgeon and leader of the Christian missionary group Serge, operated on a patient with Ebola — not knowing the patient was infected and before the outbreak was detected, The Guardian reported.

But as the disease spreads, its impact is being felt among the Catholic community in Africa, as it forces the postponement of the Uganda Martyrs Day celebration. The event, marked every year on June 3 at Namugongo Shrine near Kampala, the capital, is one of the most important in the African Catholic and Christian calendars.

Millions of pilgrims travel for the event, with thousands walking long distances to the shrine, but now those who had started the journey this year have been urged to turn back.

Bishop Joseph Anthony Zziwa of Kiyinda- Mityana, president of the Ugandan bishops’ conference, urged the people to remain calm, prayerful, united and hopeful following the postponement.

“The witness of the Uganda Martyrs continues to inspire the Church and the nation, reminding us that true faith is lived daily through love, sacrifice, truth and fidelity to God,” said the bishop in a May 18 statement.

Bishop Zziwa encouraged the faithful to celebrate the day in parishes, following the guidance of the diocesan bishop and relevant government authorities, while stressing the commemoration as a profound witness of faith, courage, fidelity to Christ and “steadfast commitment to Christian values.”

“Let us join in prayer for our nation, health workers and all those affected by the circumstances that necessitated the postponement,” said the bishop.

Earlier, the nation’s President Yoweri Museveni had announced the postponement of observances to a later date, reportedly after consultations with the national epidemic response task force and religious leaders.

“This decision was made because Uganda receives thousands of pilgrims annually from Eastern Congo, which is currently experiencing an Ebola outbreak. To safeguard everyone’s lives, it is essential that this important event be postponed,” said the president on May 17.

“I encourage those who had begun their journey to return home, continue observing the precautionary measures, report anyone who is sick, and encourage those who are ill to seek medical care.”

The latest outbreak is the 17th since 1976 when Ebola was discovered in Congo. The most common clinical signs of the disease are fever, headaches and vomiting.

The current disease is caused by the Bundibugyo strain, which was identified in 2007 and is considered rarer, and there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for it.

The Congolese Ministry of Public Health officially declared the new outbreak May 15. The World Health Organization May 17 further declared it a public health emergency of international concern, but said it had not reached pandemic levels.

According to an overview from the Provincial Health Division in Ituri, Congo, the first case was reported in late March in a town located some 50 miles from Bunia, the provincial capital of Ituri.

Since then, reports indicate that the epidemic is concentrated in the region characterized by severe overcrowding and intense population movement. It is in Ituri where an American doctor contracted Ebola.

Archbishop Marcel Utembi Tapa of Kisangani, Congo, said the people, especially those in Ituri province, were afraid of the virus, fearing that many in Mongwalu and Bunia towns were infected.

“As a church, we are calling on the government and the international community to step up efforts and work together to stop the epidemic,” Archbishop Tapa told OSV News.

The archbishop said he was pleased that the government was giving attention to the epidemic and some help was coming from outside. He urged the affected countries to work together against the epidemic.

“May God help his people,” said the archbishop.

Meanwhile, Catholic Relief Services, the U.S. Church’s overseas relief and development agency, said it was rapidly mobilizing to support communities and limit further spread of the virus.

“It started slowly, but it is spreading quickly,” said Rafaramalala Volanarisoa, CRS’ head of office in Congo in May 20. “The fear is that there are many more unidentified cases. At the same time, health workers lack the equipment needed to protect themselves and care for patients.”

CRS is leveraging partnerships with local church networks in Ituri and North Kivu, including local Caritas branches, to reach communities in remote and high-risk areas, where trust is critical.

“The Catholic Church is deeply rooted” in Congo, said Volanarisoa. “Forty-five percent of health centers here are run by the Catholic Church. They can reach the remote villages, and people trust them. Those connections are going to be key to resolving this crisis.”

Amid fear and increased misinformation, the organization is supporting community awareness and education, and delivering lifesaving information and early Ebola detection.

SCRANTON – The faithful are invited and encouraged to attend Memorial Day Masses that will be celebrated at each of our Diocesan Cemeteries on Monday, May 25, 2026.

From Scranton to Moscow, Drums to Wilkes-Barre, and Carverton to Old Forge, the Masses will take place at the times according to the above graphic.

All are welcome to participate in these liturgies to pray for and remember the faithfully departed, especially our veterans.

The Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of Scranton offer complete and compassionate service and are prepared to provide for all your burial needs. It is our privilege to assist families in planning the final resting place for their loved ones.

SCRANTON – On June 11, Catholic Bishops across the United States will take part in a rare and historic spiritual moment – consecrating the nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus as the country prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Locally in the Diocese of Scranton, Catholics are being invited to participate in this moment in a special way as well.

For the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, will celebrate Masses at the Diocese’s two parishes dedicated to the Sacred Heart – located in Peckville and Dupont – as Catholics throughout the country unite in prayer for healing, renewal, and hope.

The national consecration, organized by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), will take place on Thursday, June 11, 2026, during the Bishops’ Spring Assembly in Orlando, Florida.

Because Bishop Bambera will be unable to attend the meeting due to a previously scheduled commitment connected to ecumenical dialogue in Rome, his absence from the gathering has created an opportunity for Catholics in northeastern Pennsylvania to celebrate the Solemnity with him close to home.

The celebrations are expected to become much more than ordinary feast day observances. Pastors at both parishes say the occasion will offer Catholics an opportunity to rediscover a Church devotion that has been around for hundreds of years.

“I am very excited,” Father Andy Kurovsky, Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Peckville, said. “I hope people get as excited about it as I am, because it really is a great thing.”

Bishop Bambera will celebrate a Vigil Mass for the Solemnity at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, in Peckville.

During the liturgy, Father Kurovsky said the parish itself will be formally consecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

“Even though our parish is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, I can find nowhere where it’s been consecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Father Andy explained. “So, we’re going to do that during the Mass. That involves all of us being led by the Bishop in a special prayer of consecration of the parish to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.”

The long-time pastor hopes the parish consecration will inspire families to continue the devotion in their own homes.

“We then want to encourage our families to go home and consecrate their families and their homes to the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” he added. “We are finding that our young people are really intrigued by practices that people in my age group took for granted because we grew up with them.”

Father Kurovksy said his own devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus began during his childhood at Sacred Heart Church in North Wilkes-Barre, where Eucharistic Adoration, Benediction, and Sacred Heart novenas were common parish practices.

“There is nothing more beautiful – when you think of any image of Jesus – than to talk about His heart, which is about love,” Father Kurovsky reflected. “That is what the Lord is for us – our life-source.”

One day later, Bishop Bambera will celebrate the Solemnity Mass at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, June 12, at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Dupont.

For Father Thomas Petro, the celebration continues a long-standing parish tradition centered on prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, and hospitality.

“For many years, Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Dupont has had a whole day of prayer dedicated to our patronal feast,” Father Petro explained.

The parish will begin the day with Mass at 7:30 a.m., followed by Eucharistic Adoration throughout the day. Benediction will take place shortly before the evening Mass with Bishop Bambera. A parish gathering and potluck meal will follow in the parish picnic grove.

“We would very much like to welcome people who perhaps have never been to Dupont or been to our church, to pray with us and then to share with us a meal afterwards,” Father Petro said. “It’s just a time for us to get together, and to welcome the faithful from outside our parish to come and celebrate this important day.”

Like the Bishops’ national consecration, Father Petro said devotion to the Sacred Heart calls Catholics to deeper conversion and prayer for the nation.

“Devotion to the Sacred Heart focuses so much upon reparation for sin – our own sins, and those of other people, our country, our culture,” he said. “I think it’s a great way for us to realize who we are as Catholics, who we want to be as Catholics, and where we’re all going together as Americans.”

Father Petro also believes the devotion speaks powerfully to the present moment in American society.

“I really think this is a great time in our American history to acknowledge that we need God more than ever,” he said. “We need to humble ourselves. We need to listen to His call as Christians and as Americans – and also – we need to focus upon His great love for us.”

Both pastors hope the celebrations will draw Catholics from throughout the Diocese of Scranton.

“This is something that is really positive for our children and families,” Father Kurvosky said.

“We’re trying our best to make it a real wonderful, welcoming experience,” Father Petro added.

SCRANTON – Twelve priests who are celebrating milestone anniversaries of their ordination year will be recognized during the 2026 Mass for Priest Jubilarians at 12:10 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton.

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, will serve as principal celebrant and homilist. During the Mass, the Bishop will recognize a combine 600 years of service to the priesthood.

For generations, these faithful priests have baptized our children, celebrated our marriages, comforted us in times of loss and guided countless souls closer to Christ.

The faithful are encouraged to fill the Cathedral with gratitude and prayer as we honor the extraordinary witness and lifelong service of these dedicated shepherds.

Reverend Joseph J. Adonizio will be recognized for 70 years of priestly service. Father Adonizio was ordained a priest on May 29, 1956.

In addition to Rev. Adonizio, priests who are celebrating 65-, 50- and 25-year ordination anniversaries will be honored at the Mass.

The Mass will be broadcast live by CTV: Catholic Television and will be available for viewing on the Diocese of Scranton website, YouTube channel, and links will be made available across all Diocesan social media platforms.

SCRANTON – Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton is inviting residents to experience the national “People of Hope Museum” when the traveling exhibit visits Nay Aug Park in Scranton on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

The free interactive museum experience will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in front of the Everhart Museum and will feature immersive exhibits, storytelling opportunities and reflections focused on poverty, compassion, and community service.

Presented by Catholic Charities USA, the museum recently began traveling the country in a 53-foot semi-tractor trailer, inviting visitors to step into the lives of others through learning about their stories.

Local organizers say the Scranton stop promises to be both meaningful and family-friendly – especially as schools across the region will just be beginning summer vacation.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for families, parishioners, students and our entire community to begin the summer with an experience that is both inspiring and eye-opening,” Joe Mahoney, CEO of Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton, said. “The People of Hope Museum reminds us that every person has dignity, every story matters, and every one of us has the ability to make a difference in the life of a neighbor.”

Visitors to the museum will encounter video testimonies from people serving vulnerable populations in communities across the nation, hear stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed through acts of kindness, and participate in an interactive poverty simulation designed to foster empathy and understanding.

The traveling exhibit also includes an audio learning library featuring reflections and insights from nationally known voices discussing poverty, social isolation, and community engagement. Guests will additionally have the opportunity to record and share their own stories of hope and service as part of the museum’s ongoing national initiative.

“As Catholics, we are called not only to recognize Christ in those who are struggling, but also to respond with compassion and action,” Mahoney added. “This exhibit will help people see the very real challenges many families face every day while also highlighting the incredible hope that comes when communities come together in service.”

The People of Hope Museum is made possible through a $5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. as part of its National Storytelling Initiative on Christian Faith and Life. Organizers say the traveling exhibit seeks to inspire greater volunteerism, empathy, and involvement within local communities.

While the museum experience is intended for those ages 14 and older because some content addresses themes of poverty and past trauma, organizers emphasize that the June 10 event offers activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

In addition to the free museum tour, attendees will also receive free admission to both the Everhart Museum and the Brooks Mine during event hours.

“We want this day to be something the entire community can enjoy,” Mahoney said. “Whether someone comes to experience the museum, explore the Everhart Museum, visit the Brooks Mine or simply spend time together at Nay Aug Park, we hope people leave feeling inspired and hopeful.”

Because the museum trailer will necessitate the closing of the main entrance to Nay Aug Park for the safety of visitors, people are encouraged to enter Nay Aug Park using the entrance near the Blackwatch Cafe and follow Nay Aug Road to the parking area adjacent to the event site.

The People of Hope Museum began its national tour earlier this year in New York City. It will arrive in Scranton after making a stop in the Diocese of Greensburg, which is located near Pittsburgh. In all, the traveling museum is expected to visit more than 150 communities nationwide over the next three years.

SCRANTON – In just a few months, the former Cathedral Convent building in downtown Scranton will welcome its first seminarians as the new Saint Pius X Seminary officially begins its mission of forming future priests for the Diocese of Scranton.

Located in the 300-block of Wyoming Avenue, directly across from the Diocesan Pastoral Center and steps away from the Cathedral of Saint Peter, the new seminary will house men beginning the “propaedeutic” stage of priestly formation – a preparatory year focused heavily on prayer, fraternity, human formation, and spiritual growth.

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, recently announced several key appointments for the seminary. Father Alex J. Roche, S.T.L., will serve as Rector of Saint Pius X Seminary beginning June 1, 2026. On the same date, Father Mark J. DeCelles has been appointed to begin serving as Academic Dean; and Father Brian Van Fossen, V.F., has been appointed as Head Spiritual Director.

For Father Roche, the work underway is about much more than preparing a building for occupancy. It is about laying the groundwork for the future priests of the Diocese of Scranton.

“We’re starting something new. We’re beginning something,” Father Roche said. “Throughout the Diocese, I think there should be a lot of excitement for this new initiative that can benefit us in a lot of ways.”

While the first stage of priestly formation – the “propaedeutic” stage may sound unfamiliar – Father Roche said its purpose is simple.

“It is a time of preparation,” he explained. “It is seen as a time of formation in which a man learns to pray, he learns to live in community, he learns some of the basics of our faith by reading the Bible, the Catechism, the documents of the Second Vatican Council and great spiritual works.”

The Diocese of Scranton previously utilized seminaries outside the Diocese for this initial stage of formation. Establishing the program locally, however, creates new opportunities for seminarians to grow more deeply connected to the Church they may one day serve.

“It gives us an opportunity to get to know our seminarians a little better,” Father Roche said. “It gives them an opportunity to get to know the Diocese and its people and priests a little better – and can serve as a great foundation for the rest of their time in formation, and God willing, their time as a priest.”

The former convent building itself is ideally suited for that mission.

The first floor includes a dining area, kitchen, small library, and space for priests in residence. Upstairs are shared areas designed to foster fraternity among seminarians, along with a chapel where daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration and the Liturgy of the Hours will be celebrated. The building contains 13 rooms for seminarians.

“It is a nice space,” Father Roche noted. “It’s a space that we look forward to transforming and making our own. We’re all going to spend a lot of time there – a lot of time in prayer, a lot of time together.”

Right now, crews are repainting rooms, replacing carpeting, updating light fixtures, and making other improvements in preparation for the seminary’s opening in August.

Once operational, seminarians will begin each day together in prayer and Mass while learning the rhythms of community life and priestly formation. Seminarians will also take coursework at The University of Scranton, while also participating in retreats, service opportunities and other events that arise.

“There will be opportunities for them to go out and serve the poor,” Father Roche added. “We’ll have entire days really dedicated to prayer. We’ll also have opportunities for community and fun together.”

The year will also intentionally help seminarians navigate real-world challenges facing young adults today, including dependence on technology and social media.

“Part of what will happen during the propaedeutic is periods of media fasting – opportunities to really examine prayerfully how we use our cell phones and media,” Father Roche emphasized. “What we want to develop are healthy ways to use those things that aren’t getting in the way of spiritual development or ministry.”

The establishment of Saint Pius X Seminary comes at a moment of renewed momentum for vocations across the Diocese of Scranton, which could have 17 seminarians in formation by this fall – the highest number in several years.

“We’re watching incredible vocation work happening around the Diocese,” Father emphasized. “There is excitement now. We hope this really is a way to carry that excitement forward and make sure the momentum keeps going.”

For Father Roche, personally, the transition to full-time seminary leadership also comes with sacrifice. After serving four years as pastor of Saint Maria Goretti Parish in Laflin, he acknowledges it is difficult stepping away from parish ministry.

“Leaving a parish is just as difficult as it is for parishioners saying goodbye to a priest,” he admitted.

Still, he believes the mission ahead is worth it.

“I think it’s a sign of growth and excitement for the whole Diocese,” he ended saying. “When young men see formation happening right here in their own Diocese, it becomes more tangible, more accessible and more real.”

LAFLIN – In a world filled with constant noise, stress and distraction, young adults from across the Diocese of Scranton are discovering something increasingly rare each month: silence, peace, and the living presence of Christ.

On Thursday, May 7, the Diocese of Scranton Vocations Office hosted its latest Young Adult XLT Eucharistic Adoration at Saint Maria Goretti Parish in Laflin. The evening included Eucharistic Adoration, praise and worship music led by Joel Kankiewicz, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and fellowship afterward.

The monthly gatherings are centered on praying for vocations to the priesthood and religious life, while also encouraging the faithful to reflect on God’s call in their own lives.

“The primary mission is to bring primarily young adults to Eucharistic Adoration to pray about what the Lord might be calling them to do with their lives,” Kyra Krzywicki, Vocations Program Coordinator, explained. “But we have people of all ages and parishes coming to pray.”

The Diocese of Scranton is currently experiencing renewed hope for vocations. By this fall, the Diocese could have as many as 17 seminarians in formation – the highest number in well over a decade – while work continues toward the creation of Saint Pius X Seminary in Scranton.

“One of the recent findings that has been conducted through research has been that a lot of people entering seminary and religious life have come into it having a foundation from Eucharistic Adoration,” Krzywicki added. “Come and find a peaceful oasis where you can just rest in God and maybe find your vocation along the way.”

For many participants, Eucharistic Adoration offers an opportunity to step away from the pressures of daily life and spend quiet time with Christ.

“It is finals week. I go to King’s College and it’s very stressful,” Stephanie Kucharski of Nativity of Our Lord Parish in Duryea, said. “This has helped me to calm down, really take a deep breath and focus on God before the rest of my finals.”

Nicholas Maille said the evenings also remind young Catholics that they are not alone in living their faith.

“When we can come together – not just to pray – but to hang out and catch up and enjoy fellowship with one another, it’s just a really important reminder that when we’re out in the world, we’re not alone and we have other brothers and sisters to rely on,” he said.

Even if you have never participated in Eucharistic Adoration before, Krzywicki is hopeful you will consider attending future events.

“Even if you’ve never been to Adoration before and don’t know what to expect, the Lord will come to meet you there in that confusion or nervousness,” she emphasized.

Upcoming Adoration Opportunities

Sunday, May 24
Eucharistic Adoration following the
6 p.m. Mass at Saint Matthew Parish, East Stroudsburg

Wednesday, May 27
Eucharistic Adoration at 6:30 p.m. at Christ the King Parish, Archbald

Thursday, June 4
Young Adult XLT Eucharistic Adoration at 7 p.m. at St. Maria Goretti Parish, Laflin

WILKES-BARRE – Young Catholics throughout the Diocese of Scranton have been receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation this spring, publicly affirming the faith first given to them at Baptism and embracing a deeper life in the Church through the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

While the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, is the ordinary minister of Confirmation, the Diocese follows a three-year rotation that allows the Bishop to visit every parish over time. In years when the Bishop is unable to celebrate the sacrament with a parish, pastors are granted permission to confirm students, with many liturgies taking place on Pentecost weekend if not before.

One of the Diocese’s earlier regional Confirmation celebrations took place April 23 at Saint Robert Bellarmine Parish in Wilkes-Barre, where students from four Luzerne County parishes gathered to receive the sacrament.

Candidates from Exaltation of the Holy Cross Parish, Hanover Township, Saint John the Baptist Parish, Larksville, and All Saints Parish, Plymouth, joined the host parish for the special liturgy celebrated by Bishop Bambera.

Among those confirmed was Joaquin Gabriel “Francis” Galdos Nunez of Exaltation of the Holy Cross Parish, who chose his Confirmation name in honor of a saint cherished by his family.

“I’m very happy,” Nunez said after Mass. “I’m following my parents’ religion and helping other people out.”

Nunez admitted he felt nervous when approaching the Bishop during the Rite of Confirmation but afterward described feeling “happy and satisfied.”

Luke Borino of Saint John the Baptist Parish said receiving the sacrament filled him with joy and hope for the future.

“Tonight was a great night. I feel like the future is very bright for all of us,” he said.

Reflecting on the moment of Confirmation, Borino added, “It actually made me feel a lot of joy. I couldn’t stop smiling.”

Father Gerald Gurka, pastor of All Saints and Saint John the Baptist Parishes, said Confirmation marks an important turning point in the lives of young Catholics.

“They take the commitment that their moms and dads and godparents wanted for them when they were baptized and they take ownership of that and they ask God’s spirit, through Confirmation, to strengthen that commitment for the rest of their lives.”

Father Gurka said the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit remain especially important for young people navigating today’s world.

“As young people, they realize you need courage more than ever in a confusing world,” he added. “You need wisdom to be informed, and you need understanding to make right judgments.”

At the end of the liturgy, Father Gurka said he noticed something unique in the expressions of the newly confirmed students.

“There was something different about their faces,” he said. “There was a sense, in a nonverbal way, that they had a greater connection to God. It was a very beautiful moment that I think shined right through the ending of the Mass.”

SCRANTON – Families whose lives have been touched by adoption gathered at the Cathedral of Saint Peter on Mother’s Day to celebrate the Diocese of Scranton’s annual Adoption Mass, celebrating the gift of life, the love of mothers, and the joy of families formed through adoption.

The 10:00 a.m. Mass on May 10, 2026, was celebrated by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, who reflected in his homily on the selfless and sacrificial love that lies at the heart of motherhood and adoption alike.

Focusing on the Gospel of Saint John, Bishop Bambera reminded the faithful that Jesus promised His disciples they would never be abandoned.

“I will not leave you orphans,” Jesus says in the Gospel passage proclaimed during the liturgy. The Bishop said that promise of hope is lived out through the love people share with one another – especially within families.

“As Christians, we exist for a purpose: to proclaim the Good News of Jesus,” Bishop Bambera stated. “We exist to proclaim love, not war and division … We exist to nurture respect for all of creation … We exist to love, to forgive and to work for peace.”

On a day dedicated to honoring mothers, the Bishop reflected on the profound witness offered by birth mothers, adoptive mothers, foster mothers, grandmothers, and all mother figures.

“We honor mothers because our first encounter with love comes from our mother,” Bishop Bambera said. “That love is hardly a sentimental love – but rather, a sacred love – a selfless, sacrificial, forgiving love that mirrors the very love of Jesus Himself.”

The annual liturgy, coordinated in partnership with Saint Joseph’s Center, brought together adoptive families from throughout the Diocese of Scranton. The Mass featured joyful music from the Cathedral choir and the sound of young children filled the pews.

“Adoption is really a beautiful choice for a mother, or for parents, who acknowledge that they’re unable to provide the care that their child needs,” Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, I.H.M., President/CEO of Saint Joseph’s Center, said. “It really is an act of love and a great gift.

Sister Maryalice noted that Saint Joseph’s Center has participated in adoption ministry for more than a century and continues to witness the blessings that come through the process.

“Sometimes people think of adoption only in the negative connotation,” she added. “But we have to think of the sacrifice that is given out of love and the gift of life that enables that child to live and create a family and to be part of that family forever.”

Among those attending the Mass was Jennifer Daniels, a parishioner of Saint Jude Parish in Mountain Top, who attended with her husband and son. Daniels explained that after being unable to have children, the couple turned to adoption through Saint Joseph’s Center.

“We always wanted to adopt a child,” Daniels said. “Everyone at Saint Joseph’s Center has become like family to us. It is not their job of what they do – it is their passion.”

Daniels added that returning each year to the Mother’s Day Mass is incredibly special.

“To come back and to celebrate what God has given us and see all the people who made it possible for us to have our family, is very meaningful,” she added.

Michelle Jones of Taylor, who participated in the offertory procession alongside her husband, Wesley, and daughter, Jailynn, described adoption as an immeasurable blessing for her family.

“It’s really hard to put it into words,” Jones said. “It is something that give us so much joy – being able to share our love and being able to give someone so much love that might not have had it otherwise.”

Jones said the Mass also serves as an important reminder that many families share similar experiences and journeys.

“Just to be able to have a network of other people that have also went through the adoption process or have given their children up for adoption, it really puts into perspective how many families are willing to go above and beyond for that,” she added.