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. Anthony Federico
Fr. Brian Gannon
Fr. Jim Walsh
Fr. Zachary Crowley
Fr. Jason Hage
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Father Hage for his dedication to the future of the Church. Through his leadership of the Fisherman’s Club—an initiative that reaches out to college-aged men who may be discerning a call to the priesthood—and his work as Director of Vocations, he has provided invaluable guidance, encouragement, and support to help these young men explore their faith and consider their potential calling. What makes Father Hage’s efforts so remarkable is the way he meets each person where they are, offering wisdom, patience, and a listening heart. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of priests is a true gift to all of us, and the impact of his work reaches far beyond the individuals he directly mentors. A ‘Nod, Father Hage, for your tireless dedication, your compassion, and your vision for the future of the Church. Your guidance is shaping lives and inspiring faith in ways that will be felt for years to come.
Fr. Donald Rutherford
My friend served a tour in Iraq with the Army. While he was there, Father Rutherford was the chaplain on the base. I want to thank Father Rutherford for answering God’s call through his service to the Army—consoling soldiers struggling with PTSD, performing the Anointing of the Sick for those who couldn’t make it back from their wounds, and committing to the care of both their mental and spiritual health. Without priests like Father Rutherford, who risk their lives to serve not only God but also this country, my friend might not have survived his tour. A ‘Nod and a salute to you Father.
-Joe
Source : https://www.newstimes.com/
Fr. Pius Pietrzyk
When you think of priests, you usually think of the church—but they serve in so many other places as well. For example, Father Pius Pietrzyk works in a government role as a board member of the Legal Services Corporation. As a priest on Capitol Hill, he helps people navigating custody battles, housing issues, and domestic violence disputes gain access to legal representation. There are many professions that could benefit from the guidance of priests, and I want to give a special nod to Father Pius for highlighting that. Thank you for all you do for the poor, for making sure no one falls through the cracks, and for showing that everyone is worthy of help and God’s love. We need more priests like Father Pius.
Staff Submission
Source: https://www.
Fr. Sean Yates
I’ve always wondered how, when, and why priests decide to dedicate their lives to the priesthood, and I find their stories fascinating. Father Yates openly shares his difficult journey that ultimately led him to become a priest. He speaks candidly about hitting “rock bottom,” inspiring others who may feel lost or beyond reach, showing that there is always a way back to God’s light. Thank you for paving the way for young men and women struggling in their faith, and for showing that no member of the flock is ever truly lost.
Staff Submission
Source: https://www.
Fr. Matthew Schneider
A group that is too often overlooked in the Church is the disabled. Beyond city-mandated ramps and accessible bathrooms, there are still few ways that neurodivergent people are truly included. Father Matthew has been essential in changing that. As someone who lives with my own disorder, I want to thank Father Matthew for his courage in speaking openly about his challenges as an autistic priest. His honesty and advocacy have given so many hope and a sense of belonging. Thank you, Father Matthew, for your efforts to bridge the gap between neurodivergent individuals and the ministry, and for your programs that work to bring sensory-friendly Masses to parishes across the country.
-Morgan
Source : https://uscatholic.org/
Fr. Martin Fisher
My Nod to Father Marty was inspired by reading his recently published meditation book, entitled Camino Grace. The book provides 11 days of commentary, including poetry. The presented messages are worthy of meditation.
Thank you, Father Marty, for your efforts in writing this document.
Dan Palm
Sacred Heart Parish
Stamford, NY
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