Nod to the Collar
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Written ‘Nods

Below are ‘Nods to priests who have made a favorable impression in someone’s life. It’s important to let our priests know they are appreciated, respected, and supported.

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All Written ‘Nods

Fr. George Grafsky

In 2018 Fr. Grafsky was called on to help by the local Sheriffs Department.  There was an accident and the officer that arrived at the scene was met with two deceased people.  Knowing Father Grafsky due to how closely he worked with the department, the officer called him to help him through the traumatic ordeal. He stayed with the officer at the scene while help arrived providing him both spiritual and literal help. I want to thank Fr. Grafsky for being accessible to the community in more ways than in the church. He is so incredible at guiding people through their grief and keeping their relationship with God strong in times where it can easily waver.
Staff Submission

Fr. Michel Remery

On top of being the Director of DeoQuest, Fr. Remery goes out of his way to keep Catholics around the world connected. I was unable to attend the Youth Jubilee but Fr. Remery did and he posted videos engaging with the crowd, Pope Leo, and the Basilica.  He showed young catholics  lining up to give confession and dancing and cheering in the streets. I would like to extend a ‘nod to Fr. Remery because he made me feel like I was a part of the celebration. His passion and dedication to the vocation and us is so evident in his work and it is important. It uplifted my faith and hope for the future so thank you for making me a part of it!
Staff Submission

Fr. Gregory Boyle

Fr. Boyle founded Homeboy Industries. It’s an organization that helps the youth of Los Angeles stay out of gang violence. A ‘nod to Father Boyle for answering God’s calling and doing his work by connecting God with troubled teens as well as the thousands of recently incarcerated men who need help getting back on their feet and to their faith.  He is an example that should be followed as he reminds us that no one is truly lost in the eyes of God. Thank you Father Boyle for herding back wandering sheep.
Staff Submission

Fr. Rob Adams

I wanted to submit a ‘nod to Fr. Adams because he is my favorite Catholic podcaster. He hosts a podcast called “Ask a Priest” and it is such a great way for people to ask and receive answers to questions they might not feel comfortable asking in person. He has such a light and comforting way of explaining that no question is too silly.  It’s priests like Father Adams who expand their vocation beyond their own parish to reach parishioners who may need more guidance and answers but don’t know who to get it from. A ‘nod to Fr. Adams for providing that!
Staff Submission

Bishop Richard F. Reidy

On top of becoming Bishop this year, he has made a noted effort to get the attention of catholic youths by starting a hiking group. This summer, Bishop Reidy organized a youth hiking group at Hurd State Park.  Not only has he made himself accessible to us but with all his new responsibilities, he has not let the young parishioners go unacknowledged.  It’s a beautiful thing for people to come together in nature and quite literally be guided in their faith. Thank you Bishop Reidy!
Staff Submission

Fr. Larry Richards

Father Larry is the founder of “The Reason for Our Hope Foundation” whose mission is the spread the good news of Jesus Christ through multimedia platforms reaching over 15 million people just this year. I wanted to give a ‘nod to Father Larry to using the internet and adapting with the times to extend his hand and message to people all around the world and not just Erie PA. I’m not extremely involved in my parish in person but connecting through The Reason for Our Hope has helped me participate and inspired me to get more involved. Thank you!
Staff Submission

Fr. Michael Gaitley

Fr. Gaitley ontop of being a Priest is the Author of Consoling the Heart of Jesus.  He has a unique way with his words. He is able to breakdown the, at times, complicated words of our Lord in a way that reaches so many catholics. I wanted to give a ‘nod to Fr. Gaitley for taking his vocation and doing what he can to reach beyond his parish and give guidance and answers to those who may not have a personal connection with their own local clergy. Thank you and I’m looking forward to reading the next one.
Staff Submission

Fr. Gabriel Romanelli

Fr. Gabriel is working tirelessly keeping his parish open even in the midst of mandatory evacuations and bombardments. He has kept his church open for shelter and services as he calls for prayers of peace in this time of war. Thank God for him going above and beyond to keep a connection open to God for his parishioners and for those in need.

Source: https://www.vaticannews.va

Staff Submission

Fr. Jacob Whitman

Father Whitman participates in priest chat, a website that opens a new doorway for priests to accompany people warmly and confidentially, especially those like myself who might not feel comfortable visiting a church right away. It’s amazing how technology can become an extension of Christ’s ministry—offering guidance, hope, and prayer anytime someone reaches out.
For Father Whitman, he says this space deepens his mission as a shepherd by bringing God’s love straight into hearts through words typed on screens—and reminds him daily that no one is beyond His mercy or presence. Participating in Priest Chat has gone above and beyond his vocation by doing whatever he can to connect with parishioners. Amazing and has helped me connect.

Rich

Fr. Anthony Smith

Father Smith would listen to my heartache and confusion when I lost my husband five years ago. He would sit with me as I confessed my anger and frustration and helped me through it. Not once did he ever make me feel judged but he reminded me of God’s love and when I lost some of my faith, he helped restore it by his guidance. I will forever grieve but I have no more anger. Thank you Father Smith.

Dorothy

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