Latest 'Nods
Nod to the Collar

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

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Nod to the Collar

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

SHARE YOUR STORY

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.

Want to create your own ‘Nod? Click the “Create a ‘Nod” button to learn how you can submit a video or audio recording, orgininal artwork, or a written statement.

Nod to the Collar
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Fr. George Sears

As a mother, I want to thank you, Father George Sears, for the incredible hope and purpose you’ve brought into the lives of so many young men through your leadership of the Melchizedek Project and your tireless, future-oriented ministry. In a world that so often pulls our children in every direction, you have offered them something far greater: a quiet, sacred space to listen for God’s voice, to rediscover faith, and to see the priesthood not as something distant or unreachable, but as a beautiful and meaningful calling. The compassion, patience, and authenticity you bring to your vocation work have touched countless families like mine. You don’t just speak about vocations — you live them, showing by example what it means to give one’s life completely to service and love. Thank you for believing in the next generation, for nurturing their courage, and for helping them see that the Church’s future is something they can help build with their own hearts and hands.

Bianca
Source: https://melchizedekproject.com/about/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Fr. Anthony Federico

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

Fr. Brian Gannon

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

Fr. Jim Walsh

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

Fr. Zachary Crowley

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

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.

Staff Submission

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/local/article/Albany-diocesan-priest-cheif-army-chaplain-1589486.php

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.pillarcatholic.com/p/justice-to-the-poor-the-priest-helping

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.ncregister.com/news/article/new-ct-priest-finds-higher-calling-18179070.php

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/articles/202205/father-matthew-schneider-on-being-autistic-and-catholic/

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