Nod to the Collar

Want to acknowledge a priest who has made a positive impact on your life?

SHARE YOUR STORY

Want to acknowledge a priest who has made a positive impact on your life?

SHARE YOUR STORY

'Nod to the Collar

CELEBRATING THE GOOD

Want to acknowledge a priest who has made a positive impact on your life? You’re not alone!  Enter ‘Nod to the Collar. We are lay Catholics without an agenda. Our sole purpose is to create a loving space where we can share our stories and show appreciation to the incredible priests who tirelessly serve.

Share Your Story

Father Sam, thank you for your weekly sermons. They have my heart and mind thinking and praying. Thank you for making the young parishioners feel that they belong and are members just as much as anyone else. Thank you for following your heart to allow us to be your parishioners.
—Caitlin

A ‘Nod to Father Ken for being there for my family in our time of need.
—John

Our Mission

Celebrating The Good

Welcome to ‘Nod to the Collar, a unique platform dedicated to expressing gratitude for clergy who have positively impacted lives.

Our mission is to express love and appreciation for the thousands of devoted priests who tirelessly serve their parishes. At ‘Nod to the Collar, visitors can share their stories through video, audio, art, or written testimonials—a heartfelt “Nod” to the priests who have touched their lives.

As lay Catholics without an agenda, we aim to create a safe and loving space where practicing and non-practicing Catholics alike can share stories and show appreciation for the incredible priests who tirelessly serve.

As Seen On Catholic Faith Network

Join Fr. Gerard Gentleman on Catholic Faith Network as he interviews the founders of ‘Nod to the Collar who share their inspiring journey of creating a platform dedicated to honoring priests and sharing heartfelt stories of their impactful service. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that highlights the profound impact of clergy and the power of shared appreciation.

‘Nod In The News

Create a ‘Nod

Creating a ‘Nod is easy! First, choose how you’d like to express yourself from one of the options below. Not sure what a ‘Nod should look or sound like? Visit our Latest ‘Nods page to see how others have thanked a priest who has made a positive impact on their lives.

 

Through Video & Audio

Record an up-to-30 second thank you (video or audio), highlighting a priest who has helped you or a loved-one in a specific way.

I wanna give a nod to Father Michael because he did my first communion. This meant a lot to me because of how he helped me a lot with my faith.
Grace

Through Words

Submit an up-to-50 word thank you, highlighting a priest who has helped you or a loved-one in a specific way.

Through Art

Submit a drawing, photo, or original artwork, highlighting a priest who has helped you or a loved one in a specific way.

YOUR Latest ‘Nods

Father Francis Veraqua

Father Veraqua reminds us each and every week that “The sun will come out tomorrow”. He provides insight and meaning to each gospel reading in a straight forward and positive fashion. He often accompanies each homily with everyday examples of how we can “live” the gospel or be a disciple for others. Father will use examples of his own upbringing, often in a humorous way, to accentuate the cornerstones of our faith such as giving, love, and forgiveness. He brings hope into a troubled world for which I am forever grateful!

Nancy & Lisa

Father Lachlan

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.stpatricksandstbrigids.org/ministries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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://thecatholicsun.com/father-ballard-avoid-bandwagon-of-individualism/

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.org/kellenberg-family-welcomes-new-ls-chaplain/

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

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Nod to the Collar
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