Ordination to the Priesthood, Mass of Thanksgiving

I am realizing how long it has been since I posted. I was ordained a priest of Jesus Christ on May 27th at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral by the Most Reverend Mark L. Bartchak, bishop of Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. The next day I offered a solemn Mass of Thanksgiving. I offered the Mass of Paul VI/Novus Ordo ad orientem. A schola sang some beautiful palestrina parts, andI had an assistant priest, two deacons, about ten servers, and thirteen concelebrants. At the end I was speechless, I was so profoundly moved. My good friend and [now]brother-priest, Fr Ananias Buccicone who was my assistant priest, just gave me a big hug.

Following the Mass I presented my dad and stepmom with my confession stole (which I wore for my first confession I heard) and maniturgium (embroidered cloth used to wipe the chrism from my hands at my ordination).

Here are some photos from my ordination:

Here are some from my Mass of Thanksgiving:

Being a priest is a really intense vocation. I can only try everyday to be a good priest. I have been assigned to St Benedict Church in Johnstown, and I am also assigned as a chaplain at the hospital.