Thank you, Father Federico, for the way you lead with honesty, warmth, and a true passion for the future of the priesthood. Your “Called by Name” initiative has been such a powerful reminder that vocations don’t happen in isolation—the encouragement of a parish community can make all the difference. By inviting parishioners to recognize and nominate young men who may be called to the priesthood, you’ve helped plant seeds of faith and confidence that will grow for years to come. Priests like you are such a gift to the Catholic Church, and I’m grateful for the hope and inspiration you’ve brought to so many through your dedication.

Staff Submission

Source:  https://archdioceseofhartford.org/called-by-name-campaign-helps-many-to-begin-discerning-a-vocation/

Although 2020 now feels like decades ago, I still remember how challenging that time was for me. Between the pandemic, wildfires, and social unrest, I found myself struggling emotionally and spiritually. I felt isolated from my parish and alone in my anxieties.  In the midst of that darkness, Father Brian Gannon was a true light. His passion for uplifting his parishioners shone through in his inspired idea to fly a Cessna plane over the diocese, bringing prayers and blessings with the Eucharist displayed in a monstrance. This incredible act was more than just a gesture—it became a beacon of hope, a reminder that even in the hardest times, God’s presence surrounds us.  Thank you, Father Gannon, for going above and beyond to keep us close to God and for finding creative ways to bring comfort, connection, and faith into our lives when we needed it most.

Michelle

Source: https://www.ncregister.com/news/meet-the-catholic-priests-who-have-gone-on-spiritual-offense-during-the-covid-19-pandemic

I’d like to give a well deserved ‘Nod to Father Walsh for the thoughtful and creative ways he continues to inspire our community—especially our youth—to grow in their faith. Last year, he introduced “Lent on a Walk,” a program that brought parishioners together to reflect on their spirituality while also caring for their bodies out in God’s creation. It was such a unique way to remind us that our faith isn’t limited to the walls of the church—it can be lived and strengthened in every part of our lives, even while simply walking side by side.  What makes Father Walsh’s efforts even more meaningful is how far he extends them. By recording and sharing these reflections, he ensures that the message doesn’t just stay with those who could attend in person, but reaches countless others who might need that encouragement. His dedication to creating programs and content that connect especially with young people shows how deeply he cares about the future of our Church.  Thank you, Father Walsh, for your creativity, your energy, and your constant encouragement. You remind us all that there are so many ways to walk closer with God.

Staff Submission

Source: https://m.YouTube.com/watch?v=TgkFSWeL51u&t=47s&pp=2AEvkAIB

I just want to give a ‘Nod to Father Zachary Crowley for making his homilies so easy to access online. I spend a lot of time in my car for work, and I try to find uplifting content to keep me centered while I drive. I stumbled on his YouTube channel, and now his preaching is a part of both my car rides and my time at home. One homily I keep coming back to is the one he gave this past Lent, where he honestly shares his journey into the priesthood. Listening to him really inspires me to trust God more and keep growing in my faith. Thank you, Father Zach, for sharing your heart and gift with all of us.

Dave

Source: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-IhbTx3wLXU

Staff Submission

Source: https://vocations-syracuse.org/about/