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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Fr. Tom Hoar
A absolute ‘Nod for the work you do with the retreats and recovery programs at Enders Island. I’ve been through a similar program myself, and I know how hard it is in those early days — the struggle to stay sober, the fear, the feeling like you’re barely holding on. Reading about the way you run the St. Maximilian Kolbe Recovery Residence and the retreats really hits home, because I can see how life-changing that kind of support is. Sobriety is just the start — it’s a big part of rebuilding a real relationship with God, and having a space where prayer, community, spiritual guidance, and even creative expression are part of healing can literally save lives. I can’t imagine how many people you’ve helped stay alive, regain hope, and start over, but I know it’s countless. Your work doesn’t just guide people through recovery — it gives them a chance to find God again, to find themselves again, and to believe that a better life is possible. Thank you for doing that. Truly
Fr. Lawrence Symolon
I am incredibly grateful for your many years of faithful service to the pro-life mission, especially through your leadership and involvement with Respect Life ministries in the Archdiocese of Hartford. Your work in organizing, supporting, and speaking at Respect Life conferences, as well as guiding parish pro-life committees, has helped educate, strengthen, and mobilize so many people to stand up for the unborn and for mothers in need. Because of your courage and consistency, countless families have found hope, support, and life-affirming help in moments of fear and uncertainty. The babies saved, the hearts changed, and the faith strengthened through your efforts are blessings that can never truly be measured. Thank you for giving so much of your time, energy, and heart to defending life and for being a steady, compassionate witness to the dignity of every human person.
A grateful mother
Source:https://www.nhregister.
Fr. Valentine Rebello
I’d like to place a nod to Father Valentine Rebello pastor of St Pius X in Plainview, NY . Father Valentine came into the life of the Hall family this year and has brought both comfort and support to our family through the very difficult journey of my husband‘s illness and passing. . Hospital visits and visits bringing communion to Jim when he could no longer attend Mass brought both peace to Jim and us. His dedication to his parish, being the sole celebrant of Masses during the week and weekends while balancing the spiritual and functional needs of the parish epitomizes his faith and commitment to community Fr Valentine we’d like it known and I’m sure many other parishioners of St Pius, as well that all you do is very much appreciated!
Maureen H.
Fr. David Michael
I’ve followed your content for a while now, and I felt called to reach out and let you know how much it truly means to me. It’s not always easy being a young man trying to live out the faith in today’s world, and seeing a priest who’s real, relatable, and unafraid to talk about God in a modern way makes a huge difference. Your videos have helped me think more deeply about my faith, about prayer, and about what it actually looks like to follow Christ day to day. You make the Church feel accessible, not distant, and that’s powerful. Thank you for showing up online with joy, honesty, and conviction — it truly helps me and so many others stay grounded, encouraged, and proud of our Catholic faith.
Fr. Matt Foley
Thank you for all the incredible work you do at St. Francis High School. It’s really inspiring to see a priest who genuinely cares about students in such a deep and meaningful way — not just guiding them in their studies, but also helping them grow as people, leaders, and people of faith. The way you foster a sense of community, encourage service, and live out Franciscan values in your daily work is something that truly makes a difference in students’ lives. It’s clear that your presence and leadership help young people feel supported, challenged, and valued, and that’s such a gift. I’m really grateful that priests like you choose to dedicate themselves to education, mentorship, and forming the next generation in such a thoughtful, compassionate way. Thank you for all the time, energy, and heart you put into your work — it doesn’t go unnoticed, and it truly matters to the students, families, and community you serve. Your example is inspiring, and I hope you know how much your dedication means to so many people.
Staff Submission
Fr. Kevin P. Maloney
I want to give a huge shoutout to Father Maloney! The work he’s doing with the parish food pantry is incredible — so many families in our community are getting the support they need because of him. And it’s not just that — all the outreach projects he’s leading really show how much he cares about people and about keeping our parish connected. He’s always out there helping, guiding, and setting such an amazing example. Honestly, we’re so lucky to have him!
Lisa
Source:https://www.
Fr. Christopher Ballard
I just want highlight, Father Ballard, for everything you do to support future priests. It’s so important to have a priest who really invests in the next generation, mentoring and guiding young men as they discern their call. The way you give your time, your advice, and your example makes a huge difference — not just for them, but for all of us who want the Church to stay strong and full of life. We’re lucky to have a priest who cares that much about the future while still leading your parish with so much heart and energy. Thank you!
Staff submission
Source: https://
Fr. Thomas A. Cardone
Thank you, Father Cardone, for the steady, faith-filled presence you’ve been in the life of this school. Your work as chaplain has touched more students and families than you probably realize — the Masses, the retreats, the quiet guidance, the way you always managed to make faith feel personal and lived rather than distant or formal. You helped shape the heart of Kellenberg, and I’m grateful that my child was formed under the spiritual environment you cultivated. Thank you for leading with gentleness, joy, and a genuine love for the Marianist mission. It made all the difference.
Matthew
Source:https://www.kellenberg.
Prayer of Thanksgiving for Priests
Heavenly Father, we give You thanks for the gift of priests in Your Church. We are grateful for their dedication, their guidance, and their selfless service to Your people. Bless them with strength, courage, and joy in their ministry. May they always be filled with Your love and wisdom, and may their hearts be sustained in moments of challenge. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
‘Nod to the Collar Staff
Fr. Benjamin Lehnertz
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