Written ‘Nods

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!

Source: https://stfrancispike.org

Staff Submission

Father James Sullivan, or more affectionately known as “Father Jim”, is truly a priest for the people. There are countless testimonies of parishioners and non parishioners alike sharing all the ways he has gone above and beyond to provide support or help in any way he can. Whether it is counseling someone who is lost in grief, or making house calls for those in need of sacraments, Father Jim proves how devoted he is to his flock by acting as one of God’s Shepards looking after and guiding us especially when we wander.  To many of us he is more than a priest, he is a friend.

Source: https://www.consider.com/waterbury/opinion/article/sullivan-basilica-waterbury-faith

Staff Submission

I came across Father Nathan when I was doom scrolling one night. It was a welcomed vibe change from scary political new and the ever so annoying “Jet Two Holiday!” videos.  I want to give him a ‘Nod for performing more than just his vocational duties and finding creative ways to educate and include as many people as he can reach. To some, priests can seem pretty intimidating or out of reach.  Through his social media, Father Nathan has developed an inclusive and accessible way to bring God and the Holy Spirit into our homes.  He has inspired me to find more easy ways I can incorporate my faith into my daily life. Thank you Father Nathan!

Source: TikTok @idahovocations

Staff Submission

I want to give a ‘Nod to Father Almonte for all his works at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

As a priest he performs sacraments and celebrates Mass for those unable to go themselves. He participated extensively in the care of Covid patients during the pandemic at the risk of his own health.  Most of the time priests are synonymous with church but Father Almonte proves that they do so much more and are integral in all aspects of our lives and not just Sunday service.  He brings God and the Holy Spirit and the sacraments to those who can’t come to them.  I think it’s an amazing thing for Father Almonte to provide parishioners a way to stay strong in their faith in difficult times and if it weren’t for priests like him, that wouldn’t be possible.

Source: https://www.nyp.org/pastoral-care/staff-bios/columbia-pastoral-care

Staff Submission

As a fairly new Director of Vocations, Father Ellis has made huge efforts in helping young men and women get involved in vocational training ensuring a strong future for the Diocese.  In a time of chapter elevens and scandal its priests like Father Ellis who are essential in aiding men to hear a calling of their own and discern the Lord’s will for them. It creates a lot of hope in a time that can seem disparaging. Keep up the good work!

Source: https://www.Norwich diocese.org/Stay-Informed/All-Diocesan-Articles/ArticleType/ArticleView/articled/21948/A-New-Mission-Full-Time-Focus-on-vocations-for-the-Diocese

Staff Submission

I was very touched by Father Igwe’s story. I learned he is from Nigeria and his faith journey began when he became an alter-server at the age of nine.  He speaks fondly of growing up in a predominately catholic community and trying on priest robes just to sneak a peak of himself in the mirror.  In a time where it feels like the numbers of the priesthood are dwindling, it is so inspiring to hear that some priests hear the calling at a young age and do everything they can to carry out God’s will for them. I pray that Father Igwe continues to speak on his journey and inspire young boys who are pulled to the church follow in his footsteps.

Source: https://www.oscott.org/articles/just-start-by-saying-yes-to-his-will-christophers-story

Staff Submission

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.

Source: www.tektonministries.org

Staff Submission

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!

Source: www.catholicorofiles.org

Staff Submission

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.

Source: http://www.homeboyindustries.org

Staff Submission