new priest assignments 2023

• All Articles
• The Catholic Faith
• Perspectives
• Advertising

Making God a Partner in Your Business

Heaven opened: the holy mass as a gift of grace, radiant in the gulag and elsewhere, the new temple: how easter changes religion, local art show celebrates the eucharist, cabrini’s ‘miracle of the mountains’ featured on fox31, holy wisdom: the annunciation in the words of the saints, god provides: donated duplex creates new teacher housing at st. stephen school, on 4/20, “that they might have life” a timely reminder of marijuana’s negative effects, catholic charities’ benedict senior housing in glenwood springs is moving forward, archbishop aquila establishes cabrini teaching fellows, watch | how to make a palm leaf cross, watch | denver artists explain symbolism of new crucifix, sjv lay division lenten reflection | penance, watch | cathedral of the sacred heart in pueblo featured on the chair series, watch | sjv lay division lenten reflection: a time of preparation, official priest appointments: effective july 1, 2023.

Here’s a list of all the new priest assignments for the Archdiocese of Denver, including pastor and parochial vicar reassignments, parish administrators, chaplains and retirements. These appointments are effective July 1, 2023, unless noted otherwise.

Pastors Renewed for an Additional Six Years (or one year) at the Same Parish

Fr. Matthew Book, Light of the World in Littleton

Fr. Daniel Cardo, S.C.V., Holy Name in Englewood

Fr. Warli de Araujo Castro, Holy Cross in Thornton

Msgr. Jorge de los Santos, Our Lady Mother of the Church in Commerce City

Fr. James E. Fox, Good Shepherd in Denver (one year)

Fr. Simon Kalonga, St. Joseph & Holy Family in Fort Collins

Fr. Terrence Kissell, St. Michael the Archangel in Aurora (one year)

Fr. John Paul Leyba, St. Frances of Cabrini in Littleton

Fr. Humberto Marquez, St. John the Baptist in Longmont

Fr. Sean McGrath, Shrine of St. Anne in Arvada

Fr. Herman Joseph Nsubuga Jjuuko, St. Anthony of Padua in Julesburg

Fr. Jerome Rohr, St. Patrick in Holyoke, Christ the King in Haxtun and St. Peter the Apostle in Fleming

Fr. Joseph Tran, St. Joseph in Golden

Pastors Changing Parishes and New Pastor Assignments for Six Years:

Fr. Israel Perez-Lopez, Presentation of Our Lady in Denver

Fr. Joseph McLagan, St. Mary Magdalene in Denver, in addition to being Pastor at St. Bernadette in Lakewood

Fr. Julio César Amezcua Martín, St. Augustine in Brighton (effective May 5, 2023)

Fr. Matthew Magee, St. Stephen, Protomartyr in Glenwood Springs

Fr. Francis Thérèse Krautter, C.S.J., St. Ignatius of Loyola in Denver

Fr. Joseph Grady, St. Mary in Aspen and Snowmass Chapel in Snowmass Village

Fr. Philip Binh Tran, C.R.M., Queen of Vietnamese Martyrs in Wheat Ridge (effective July 8, 2023)

Parochial Vicars

Fr. Juan Adrian Hernandez Dominguez, St. Cajetan Parish in Denver

Fr. Arokiaraj Adaikaladoss, H.G.N., St. Joseph in Fort Collins

Fr. Isidore Orjikwe, Our Lady of the Valley in Windsor

Fr. John Mrozek, Our Lady of Fatima in Lakewood

Fr. Ireneusz Kuźmicki, St. Clare of Assisi in Edwards

Fr. Nailon Joshua Nyoni, St. Augustine in Brighton (effective April 20, 2023)

Fr. Juan Sebastian Splawinski, Ascension in Denver

Fr. Tomasz Surma, Holy Name in Steamboat

Fr. Peter Srsich, St. Thomas Aquinas in Boulder

Fr. Reinaldo Rojas, St. Mary in Rifle

Fr. John Ezratty, M.C., St. Bernadette in Lakewood and St. Mary Magdalene in Denver

Fr. Guillermo Bustillos, St. John the Baptist in Longmont

Fr. John Thérèse Creus, C.S.J., St. Ignatius of Loyola in Denver

Fr. Martin Latiff, M.C., Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and St. Elizabeth of Hungary in Denver

Fr. Kevin Kasel, Our Lady of Loreto in Foxfield

Fr. Anthony Duc Huan Phan, Light of the World in Littleton

Fr. Patricio Xavier Chuquimarca Picuji, St. John the Baptist in Johnstown

Other Assignments/Departures

Fr. John Stapleton, Chaplain at Holy Family High School in Broomfield. He will reside at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Denver.

Fr. Christian J. Mast, Chaplain at Bishop Machebeuf High School in Denver. He will reside at the Companions of Christ House in Denver.

Fr. James Claver, S.C.J., is reassigned as Chaplain at the Augustine Institute in Greenwood Village

Fr. Douglas Grandon is reassigned as National Chaplain for FOCUS

Fr. Braden Wagner is reassigned as Formator, St. John Vianney Seminary

Fr. Miguel Soubrier, Jail Ministry, effective April 1, 2023. He is in residence at Light of the World Parish in Littleton.

Fr. Dirk Dunfee, S.J., departs St. Ignatius of Loyola in Denver.

Fr. Patrick Quinn, S.J., departs St. Ignatius of Loyola in Denver.

Fr. Darrick Leier departs St. Mary in Aspen for the Diocese of Fargo, North Dakota.

Fr. Szymon Czuwara departs St. Francis of Assisi in Longmont for the Archdiocese of Lublin, Poland.

Fr. Bonaventure Cai My Loc, C.R.M., departs Queen of Vietnamese Martyrs in Wheat Ridge  to be assigned as Pastor at another Congregation of the Mother of the Redeemer parish.

Retirements

Fr. Edward Poehlmann

Fr. Elbert Chilson

Fr. Joseph Hartmann

The Church Draft: God’s Divine Roster for an Apostolic Age

Most popular, official priest appointments, effective july 1, 2024, in its 25th year, st. john vianney theological seminary is seen as model for others, thousands march for truth and love at inaugural march for life in colorado.

Editor's Pick

All saints’ day not a holy day of obligation in 2021, but go to mass anyways, why is devotion to mary important, our lady of guadalupe: the miracle that changed history, the eucharist throughout history: a timeline, ars moriendi: the art of dying, quick links.

• Privacy Policy

© 1999-2023 Archdiocese of Denver . All Rights Reserved.

• Annual Catholic Appeal
• Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW)
• Asian Catholic Initiative
• Black Catholic Initiative
• Cardinal's Office
• Catechesis and Youth Ministry
• Catholic Campaign for Human Development
• Catholic Cemeteries
• Catholic Charities
• Catholic Relief Services
• Child Abuse Investigations and Review
• Domestic Violence Outreach
• Enseñar quién es Cristo
• Human Dignity and Solidarity
• Immigrant Affairs and Immigration Education
• Kolbe House Jail Ministry
• Liturgy Training Publications
• Misericordia Home
• Mundelein Seminary
• Parish Vitality and Mission
• Persons with Disabilities
• Policies and Procedures, Archdiocesan
• Protection of Children and Youth
• Radio and Television
• Respect Life
• Stewardship and Development
• To Teach Who Christ Is
• Veterans Ministry
• Young Adult Ministry

News and Events

News releases, cardinal blase j. cupich to ordain five priests for the archdiocese of chicago on saturday, may 20, 2023 at holy name cathedral.

Chicago, (May 17, 2023) – Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, will ordain five priests for the Archdiocese of Chicago at 10 a.m., on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at Holy Name Cathedral, 735 N. State St., Chicago. The newly ordained priests, ranging in age from 30 to 35, hail from Barrington, Burr Ridge, Crystal Lake, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The ordination will be livestreamed on the archdiocese’s YouTube channel Catholic Chicago https://www.youtube.com/live/M-wVjJnBL0Q?feature=share .

“The Church in every age, and even more in our own, needs leaders who can inspire hope and bring Jesus’ message of mercy and compassion to the diverse communities of the archdiocese,” said Cardinal Cupich. “These fine young men are being ordained to serve the People of God and we look forward to see how their ministry unfolds in the years to come.”

Men become priests through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, a celebration rich in symbolism and tradition. By ordination, priests receive a wide variety of responsibilities, particularly celebrating the Mass and granting forgiveness of sins through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Priests also preach the Gospel, and celebrate the Sacraments of Baptism, Matrimony, and Anointing of the Sick. Diocesan priests make promises of life-long celibacy, prayer for the People of God, and obedience to their bishop at their ordination. It is also expected that priests will lead a life of simplicity consistent with the people they serve.

Each newly ordained priest has completed at least six years of human, spiritual, academic and pastoral formation, which included an exhaustive study of philosophy, Catholic theology, the history of the Church, and pastoral practice. As part of their seminary education, future priests are assigned to work at parishes, schools, and hospitals as they develop their capacity to be shepherds of God’s people.

"This year's ordinandi bring a wealth of prior life experience drawn from a broad range of backgrounds, such as social work, finance, teaching, and engineering but what they share is a priestly formation that has prepared them to be men of prayer, teaching and service for the people of God and God's Church,” said Very Reverend John Kartje, rector/president of University of St. Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary. “By the grace of God, their gifts will be a blessing to the archdiocese as we continue to journey together into the new reality of Renew My Church - which is not all that different from the ‘original new reality’ seen in the Acts of the Apostles.”

Kevin Gregus , 35, from Crystal Lake, will have his first assignment at Two Holy Martyrs Parish in Chicago. He will celebrate his first Mass on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at 2 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Crystal Lake.

Daniel Korenchan , 30, from Burr Ridge, will have his first assignment at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Orland Hills. He will celebrate his first Masses on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at 2 p.m. at St. James Parish in Arlington Heights and on Sunday, May 28, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. John of the Cross in Western Springs.           

Michael Mehringer , 33, from Barrington, will have his first assginment at Queen of Apostles Parish in Chicago. He will celebrate his first Mass on Sunday, May 21 at 9 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Parish in Chicago.

Francisco Javier Pagán Portalatín , 34, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, will have his first assignment at San José Sánchez del Río Parish in Chicago. He will celebrate his first Mass in English on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Woods Parish in Orland Park. He will celebrate his first Mass in Spanish at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 27 at Santa Gema Galgani Sanctuary (Shrine of St. Gemma) in Carolina, Puerto Rico.

Jesús Raya Custodio , 34, from Chicago, will have his first assignment at St. Alphonsus Parish in Chicago. He will celebrate his first Mass in English and Spanish on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Nazareth Parish in Chicago.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Catholic Review

Inspiring the Archdiocese of Baltimore

Meet the new priests to be ordained in 2023

Archbishop William E. Lori will ordain eight men to the priesthood June 24 at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland. Feature profiles of the new priests will be added to the Catholic Review site daily on this page from June 15 to June 22. They will be displayed below.

Historic day: Archbishop Lori ordains largest class of priests in more than 40 years

Priest-to-be Sampson Onwumere keeps Nigerian ties strong, builds new ones to Baltimore

Deacon Mwai’s calling rooted in Benedictine foundation

Deacon Mmuoh’s journey goes from ‘playing Mass’ to celebrating the Eucharist

Deacon Koski looks forward to being ‘instrument of God’s mercy’

Deacon Paul Kongnyuy embraces ‘priestly heart’

Former NASA chemist Deacon Javier Fuentes finds faith in science and a more “satisfying” job

Deacon John Bilenki brings familial approach to ministry

Deacon Daniel Acquard finds what was missing while setting sail for priesthood

Copyright © 2023 Catholic Review Media

Real Life. Real Faith. 

Catholic Review Media communicates the Gospel and its impact on people’s lives in the Archdiocese of Baltimore and beyond.

Our Mission

Catholic Review Media provides intergenerational communications that inform, teach, inspire and engage Catholics and all of good will in the mission of Christ through diverse forms of media.

Catholic Review 320 Cathedral Street Baltimore, MD 21201 443-524-3150 [email protected]

Social Media

• Silent retreat is healing and can be encounter with God’s love, say retreatants
• Argentina’s slum priests hope for papal Mass at pope’s favorite soccer stadium
• Spring is a little bit extra
• Catholic chat bot: Putting AI at the service of the church
• Sister best known for ministry to migrant shares her artwork that tells their stories
• Catholic Charities breaks ground on Intergenerational Center
• Italian leader says pope will join G7 discussion on AI
• Catholic evangelists ask NFL fans visiting Detroit to make Jesus their No. 1 draft pick
• Impassioned voices heard at Seek the City listening session

Catholic Media Assocation

Maryland-Delaware-DC Press Association

The Associated Church Press

Summary of 2023 Priest Assignment Changes for the Diocese of Orange

Summary of Priests Assignment Changes

Bishop Vann is pleased to announce the following appointments, effective July 1, 2023

REV. JOSEPH LUAN NGUYEN From Pastor, Our Lady of La Vang Church, Santa Ana To Pastor, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove

REV. MSGR. TUAN JOSEPH PHAM From Pastor, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove To Pastor, San Antonio de Padua del Cañon Church, Anaheim Hills

REV. VINCENT HUNG PHAM From Director, Vietnamese Catholic Center, Santa Ana To Pastor, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach

VERY REV. DANIEL BRIAN READER From Chancellor and Director of Priests’ Personnel, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove To Pastor, St. Angela Merici Church, Brea

REV. QUAN DINH TRAN From Administrator, St. Hedwig Church, Los Alamitos To Pastor, St. Hedwig Church, Los Alamitos

PASTORS RENEWED OR EXTENDED: REV. BILL TUYEN CAO From Pastor, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim To Pastor Renewed, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim

REV. MSGR. DOUGLAS JAMES COOK From Pastor, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Newport Beach To Pastor Renewed, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Newport Beach

REV. EDWARD LEE POETTGEN From Pastor, St. Boniface Church, Anaheim To Pastor Renewed, St. Boniface Church, Anaheim

REV. MICHAEL M. PONTARELLI, O.S.M. From Pastor, St. Juliana Falconieri Church, Fullerton To Pastor Renewed, St. Juliana Falconieri Church, Fullerton ADMINISTRATORS/ DIRECTORS: REV. WAYNE ADAJAR From Parochial Vicar, Holy Spirit Church, Fountain Valley To Parochial Administrator, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park

REV. MARTIN PHUOC BUI From Parochial Vicar, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods To Parochial Administrator, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods

REV. ROBERT PETER CAPONE From Campus Minister, University of San Diego, San Diego To Parochial Administrator, St. Joachim Church, Costa Mesa

REV. WILLIAM BREWER GOLDIN From Parochial Vicar, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Huntington Bch. To Parochial Administrator, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, La Habra

REV. JOSEPH THAI NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of La Vang Church, Santa Ana To Director, Vietnamese Catholic Center, Santa Ana

REV. MICHAEL DUC NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin To Parochial Administrator Pro-Tem, Santa Clara de Asís Church, Yorba Linda, Effective Feb. 1, 2023

_______________________________________________________

REV. STEVEN G. SALLOT From Pastor, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach

St. John Vianney Chapel remaining under the Administration of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Newport Beach ______________________________________________________

REV. LUÍS GERARDO SEGURA From Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp Church, Stanton To Parochial Administrator, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana

REV. KIET ANH TA From Parochial Vicar, St. Thomas More Church, Irvine To Parochial Administrator, Our Lady of La Vang Church, Santa Ana

PAROCHIAL VICARS: REV. SAÚL ALBA-INFANTE From Parochial Administrator, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana To Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp Church, Stanton

REV. ERIALDO RAMÍREZ ALFARO From Parochial Vicar, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin To Parochial Vicar, St. Norbert Church, Orange

REV. RUDOLPH ALUMAM From Parochial Vicar, Holy Family Church, Orange To Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana

REV. GABRIEL ATIDOO From Diocese of Navrongo–Bolgatanga, Ghana To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Newport Beach

REV. EDWARD GERARD BECKER From Pastor, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, La Habra To Parochial Vicar, Holy Trinity Church, Ladera Ranch

VERY REV. ERNEST SCOTT BORGMAN From Judicial Vicar, Tribunal and Office of Canonical Services, Garden Grove and Formation Faculty, Mt. Angel Seminary, OR To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente and Episcopal Vicar for Philanthropy

REV. NAM LINH DOAN From Parochial Vicar, St. Norbert Church, Orange To Parochial Vicar, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim

REV. HUMBERTO CRUZ FLORES, O.A.R. From Pastor, Guardian Angel Church, El Paso, Texas To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of the Pillar Church, Santa Ana, effective Feb. 1, 2023

REV. JAIMELITO GEALAN, SVD From Society of the Divine Word, Philippines, Southern Province To Parochial Vicar, St. Irenaeus Church, Cypress

REV. RANDY GUILLEN From Parochial Administrator, St. Angela Merici Church, Brea To Parochial Vicar, Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, SJC

REV. MANUEL LOPEZ From Parochial Vicar, Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano To Parochial Vicar, St. Angela Merici Church, Brea

REV. PAW TUN LWIN From Pastor, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach

REV. FRANCIS CHUNG KAY NG From Parochial Vicar, St. Angela Merici Church, Brea To Parochial Vicar, St. Timothy Church, Laguna Niguel

REV. JOSEPH DUNG NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, Vietnamese Catholic Center, Santa Ana; Part-time Parochial Vicar, IHM Church, Santa Ana To Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana

REV. THANH-TAI PETER NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar Part-time, Christ Our Savior Church, Santa Ana and Parochial Vicar Part-time, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana To Parochial Vicar, Christ Our Savior Church, Santa Ana

REV. DAVID ALAN OTTO From Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Church, Fullerton To Parochial Vicar, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Huntington Beach

REV. HIEN VAN PHAM, S.V.D. From Society of the Divine Word, Riverside To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of La Vang Church, Santa Ana

REV. TUAN VAN PHAM From Parochial Vicar, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo To Parochial Vicar, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove

REV. MARCO HERNANDEZ QUINTANILLA From Parochial Vicar, St. Edward the Confessor Church, Dana Point To Parochial Vicar, Santiago de Compostela Church, Lake Forest

REV. ARISTOTLE GEORGE QUAN From Parochial Vicar, San Francisco Solano Church, Rancho Santa Margarita To Parochial Vicar, St. Edward the Confessor Church, Dana Point

REV. JOSEPH VINCENT SQUILLACIOTI From Parochial Vicar, St. Edward the Confessor Church, Dana Point To Parochial Vicar, Holy Spirit Church, Fountain Valley REV. ARUNDAS THOMAS From Diocese of Quilon, India To Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Church, Fullerton

REV. CHARLES TRAN From Parochial Vicar, Holy Trinity Church, Ladera Ranch To Parochial Vicar, Holy Family Church, Orange

REV. HOA XUAN TRAN From Parochial Vicar, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach To Parochial Vicar, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin

REV. THOMAS HENRY TRAN From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach To Parochial Vicar, St. Thomas More Church, Irvine

REV. DANH NGOC TRINH From Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana To Parochial Vicar Part-time, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Santa Ana; Remaining Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana

REV. MAURO TINOCO TRUJILLO From Parochial Vicar, St. Irenaeus Church, Cypress To Parochial Vicar, St. Edward the Confessor Church, Dana Point

REV. ANTHONY HIEN VU From Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana To Parochial Vicar, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove

REV. MARTIN DUC ANH VU From Parochial Vicar, Santiago de Compostela Church, Lake Forest To Parochial Vicar, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin

REV. PAUL HOA VU From Parochial Vicar Part-time, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove To Parochial Vicar Part-time, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana Remaining Adjutant Judicial Vicar, Canonical Services, Garden Grove NEWLY ORDAINED: REV. IAN GASTON From Mt. Angel Seminary, St. Benedict, Oregon To Parochial Vicar, St. Irenaeus Church, Cypress

REV. BENJAMIN MINH NGUYEN From St. John Seminary, Camarillo To Parochial Vicar, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo

REV. JESÚS DAVID MORENO-NORIEGA From St. John Seminary, Camarillo To Parochial Vicar, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove

IN RESIDENCE: REV. BRANDON LONG DANG From Director of Vocations, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove In residence at San Francisco Solano Church, Rancho Santa Margarita; Remains Director of Vocations, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove

SENIOR PRIESTS: REV. GEORGE PAUL BLAIS From Pastor, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods To Senior Priest, St. Catherine of Siena Church, Laguna Beach and Chaplain for Retrouvaille

REV. MICHAEL PATRICK HANIFIN From Pastor, St. Joachim Church, Costa Mesa To Senior Priest, St. Joachim Church, Costa Mesa and Chaplain for Neo-Catechumenal Way

REV. JOSEPH BARCLAY KNERR From Pastor, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach To Senior Priest, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach REV. ALFRED STEPHEN BACA From Senior Priest, St. Anne Church, Seal Beach To Episcopal Vicar for Ecumenism and Interreligious Affairs, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove, effective February 27, 2023; R emaining Senior Priest, St. Anne Church, Seal Beach

REV. CHEEYOON TIMOTHY CHUN From Parochial Vicar, Holy Family Church, Orange To Associate Director of Vocations Part-time, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove and Parochial Vicar Part-time, Holy Family Church, Orange

REV. JOHN EDGAR CARONAN, O.PRAEM. From Adjutant Judicial Vicar and Defender of the Bond, Tribunal and Office of Canonical Services, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove To Judicial Vicar, Tribunal and Office of Canonical Services, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove

REV. MICHAEL TUAN KHONG From Secretary to the Bishop and Master of Ceremonies, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove To Chancellor and Interim Director of Priests’ Personnel, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove; Remaining as Secretary to the Bishop and Master of Ceremonies.

REV. TIMOTHY JOHN DONOVAN From Santa Margarita Catholic High School, Rancho Santa Margarita To Released to promote Evangelization and Faith Formation Programs nationwide. Private residence

REV. JOHN FRANCIS NENEMAN From Pastor, San Antonio de Padua del Cañon Church, Anaheim Hills To “Ecclesiastical Coordinator,” Knights of Columbus Private residence

CHAPLAINCY: REV. ISABELO ABUAN, III, A.M. From Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines To Chaplain, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton

REV. WEIPING (FRANCIS) LI From Chaplain, CHOC Hospital, Orange To Chaplain, Chinese Catholic Community at St. Thomas More Church, Irvine; Remaining Chaplain at CHOC Hospital, Orange In residence at St. Norbert Church, Orange

REV. FLORANTE MOREN, A.M. From Chaplain, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton To Chaplain, Santa Margarita Catholic High School, Rancho Santa Margarita

REV. CHINNAPPAN MUDIYAPPAN, O.S.M. From Aikiya Annai Province of the Servites, India To Chaplain, Servite High School, Anaheim In residence at Servite Community of St. Philip Benizi, Links House, Buena Park.

REV. BENJAMIN PHILIP TRAN From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente To Chaplain, University of California Irvine, Irvine In Residence at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Irvine

RETIRED: REV. JOHN LE VECKE From Leave of Absence To Retired Priest Status. In current residence Effective October 1, 2022

REV. KENNETH ALLEN SCHMIT From Parochial Administrator Extended, St. John Vianney Chapel, Balboa Island To Retired Priest Status. In private residence Effective June 30, 2023

LEAVE OF ABSENCE/SICK LEAVE: REV. FRED KEVIN BAILEY From Pastor, Santa Clara de Asis Church, Yorba Linda To Administrative Leave from ministry through June 30, 2024

REV. EFRAÍN FLORES From Senior Priest, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim To Sick Leave, effective Nov. 19, 2022 In residence at St. Anne Church, Santa Ana

RETURNING TO RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES: REV. THOMAS DEVINE, O.A.R. From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of the Pillar Church, Santa Ana To Order of Augustinian Recollects, Montebello, CA

REV. AARON GALVIZO, A.M. From Parochial Vicar, St. Irenaeus Church, Cypress To Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Diocese of Camden, New Jersey

REV. EVAN WILLIAM SIMINGTON From Parochial Administrator, St. John Henry Newman Church, Irvine, In-residence at St. Timothy Church, Lake Forest, CA To Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter, Outside diocese

REV. JOHN-FRANCIS TOAN VU, SJ From Chaplain, Campus Ministry, University of California Irvine, Irvine To Jesuits Western Province, Portland, Oregon

Related Posts

Clergy Assignment Updates & Parochial Vicar Changes

Summary of Priest Assignment Changes for the Diocese of Orange Announced

Summary of 2022 Priest Assignment Changes for the Diocese of Orange

Opportunities to enrich your prayer life

How can we pray for you?

Pray the live rosary.

You're invited to pray a Live Rosary with us every Wednesday at 4 PM PST. Live from Christ Cathedral , a member of the Church will lead us through the Glorious Mysteries

Be Inspired by our Weekly Reflections

Listen to a reflection, new every Thursday.

Your message (optional)

Disclaimer: The Diocese of Orange website uses [insert tool] to provide automatic translation of its web pages.

This translation application tool is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. [insert tool] is a paid third-party service, which is not controlled by the Diocese of Orange. The Diocese of Orange is unable to guarantee the accuracy of any translation provided by [insert tool] and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information or changes in the formatting of the pages resulting from the use of the translation application tool.

The web pages currently in English on the Diocese of Orange website are the most accurate source for the program information and services the Diocese of Orange provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes.

[mailpoet_form id=”1″]

• Catholic Social Teachings
• Our Catholic Faith
• Strategic Plan
• Our Lady of La Vang Shrine
• Virtual Tour
• New Hope Counseling Services
• Catholic Charities OC
• Disability Services
• Grief Support
• Behavioral Health
• Pregnancy Support
• Report Abuse
• Request Prayer
• Find an Event
• Find a Parish
• Find a School
• Ministries & Services
• Financial Statements
• Giving Societies
• OC Catholic News
• Protect & Report

• Spiritual Life
• Shepherd’s Voice

The Catholic Voice

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Father Dan Wittrock and Father Michael Gadache Ahmadu concelebrate Mass at St. Bernard Parish in May 2023.

Archdiocese of Omaha announces 2023 priest assignments

May 19, 2023

The Archdiocese of Omaha announced the following assignments for clergy and tribunal members. All assignments are effective July 1 .  

Archdiocese of Omaha  

Clergy and Tribunal Assignments 2023  

Retirements 

Fr. Frank Baumert , senior associate pastor, St. Thomas More Parish, Omaha, and St. Joan of Arc Parish, Omaha. (Ordained 1978.)   

Fr. Michael Grewe , vicar general and pastor of St. Cecilia Cathedral. (Ordained 1979.)    

Fr. Daniel Kampschneider , pastor, St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Omaha. (Ordained 1979.)  

Fr. Gerald Leise , pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish, Pender, Sacred Heart Parish, Emerson, and St. Mary Parish, Hubbard. (Ordained 1974.)    

Fr. Carl Salanitro , pastor of Holy Cross Parish, Omaha. (Ordained 1970.) 

Fr. William Sanderson , pastor of St. Stanislaus Parish, Omaha, and Holy Ghost Parish, Omaha. (Ordained 1983)  

Urban Families of Parishes   

Urban Family A – Fremont, Hooper, North Bend, Scribner, Snyder  

Fr. Walter Nolte , pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Fremont, St. Charles Borromeo Parish, North Bend, St. Lawrence Parish, Scribner, and St. Rose of Lima Parish, Hooper, is reappointed as pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Fremont, for a six-year term.   

Urban Family B – Blair, Fort Calhoun, Tekamah  

Fr. Damien Wee , pastor, St. Francis Borgia, Blair, takes on additional duties as pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Tekamah.   

Urban Family C – St. Elizabeth Ann, St. James  

No change.    

Urban Family D – Holy Name, St. Philip Neri-Blessed Sacrament  

Fr. Anthony Weidner , pastor, St. Michael Parish, South Sioux City, to senior associate pastor in the parishes in Urban Family D.    

Fr. Damien Cook , pastor, St. Philip Neri-Blessed Sacrament Parish, Omaha, and pastor, Holy Name Parish, Omaha.

Urban Family E  – Sacred Heart, St. Benedict the Moor, St. John  

Fr. David Korth , pastor, Sacred Heart Parish, Omaha, is reappointed for a six-year term and takes on additional duties as pastor, St. Benedict the Moor Parish, Omaha.   

Urban Family F  – St. Leo the Great, St. Pius X, St. Bernard  

Fr. Michael Gadache , associate pastor, St. Pius X Parish, Omaha, and chaplain, Our Lady of Africa Chaplaincy, to pastor, St. Bernard Parish, Omaha. The chaplaincy duties are amalgamated into the office of pastor.   

Urban Family G – Christ the King, St. Robert Bellarmine, St. John Paul II Newman Center  

No change.   

Urban Family H – St. Cecilia Cathedral, St. Margaret Mary  

Fr. Jeremy Hans , pastor, St. Ludger Parish, Creighton, St. Ignatius Mission, Brunswick, St. Paul Parish, Plainview, and administrator, St. Wenceslaus Parish, Verdigre, St. William Mission, Niobrara, and St. Andrew Parish, Bloomfield, to pastor, St. Cecilia Cathedral.   

Fr. Georges Sokpo , a priest of the Diocese of Aného in Togo, to associate pastor of the parishes of Urban Family H.   

Fr. Eliot Schwer , resident at St. Cecilia Cathedral, to associate pastor of the parishes of Urban Family H.   

Urban Family I – Our Lady of Lourdes-St. Adalbert, Holy Cross, St. Andrew Kim Taegon  

Fr. Vitalis Anyanike , pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes-St. Adalbert Parish, Omaha, takes on additional duties as pastor, Holy Cross Parish, Omaha.

Fr. James de Anda , judge of the Metropolitan Tribunal, will be in residence at Our Lady of Lourdes-St. Adalbert Parish, Omaha.    

Urban Family J – St. Peter, St. Joseph  

Fr. Joseph Broudou , on leave to the Diocese of Grand Island, to senior associate pastor, St. Peter Parish, Omaha, and St. Joseph Parish, Omaha.    

Urban Family K – St. Frances Cabrini, St. Mary Magdalene  

No change.   

Urban Family L  – St. Thomas More, St. Joan of Arc  

Urban Family M – St. Bridget-St. Rose, St. Francis of Assisi, Our Lady of Fatima, St. Stanislaus  

Fr. David Fulton , pastor, St. Michael Parish, Central City, St. Peter Parish, Clarks, and St. Peter Parish, Fullerton, to senior associate pastor in the parishes of Urban Family M.    

Fr. Bede Tam Van Nguyen and the community of Our Lady of Fatima Parish will relocate from St. Peter Parish, Omaha, to St. Stanislaus Parish, Omaha. This move will take place over the course of the summer.  

Fr. William Safranek , pastor, St. Bridget-St. Rose Parish, Omaha, and St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Omaha, is reappointed for a six-year term and takes on additional duties as pastor, St. Stanislaus Parish, Omaha.  

Urban Family N – Assumption-Guadalupe, Ss. Peter & Paul, St. Mary  

Urban Family O – St. Bernadette, Holy Ghost  

Fr. Jeffrey Mollner , pastor, St. Bernadette Parish, Bellevue, with duties at Daniel J. Gross Catholic High School, Bellevue, takes on additional duties as pastor, Holy Ghost Parish, Omaha.    

Urban Family P – Bellevue: St. Mary, St. Matthew   

Fr. Joseph Kwasau , priest of the Archdiocese of Kaduna in Nigeria, to associate pastor, St. Mary Parish, Bellevue.    

Fr. Lydell Lape , pastor, St. Mary Parish, Bellevue, is reappointed to a six-year term.   

Fr. Leo Rigatuso , pastor, St. Matthew Parish, Bellevue, is reappointed to a six-year term.   

Fr . Michael Voithofer , pastor, St. Benedict the Moor Parish, Omaha, and Ablaze Ministries, with residence at the Ablaze House of Prayer, ceases in his role as pastor and takes on additional duties of sacramental supply at St. Matthew Parish, Bellevue.     

Urban Family Q – Papillion: St. Columbkille, Ralston: St. Gerald  

Fr. Mark Nolte , pastor, St. Gerald Parish, Ralston, is reappointed to a six-year term.   

Urban Family R – Gretna: St. Patrick, St. Charles Borromeo, Springfield: St. Joseph   

Fr. Jeffery Loseke , pastor, St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Gretna, is reappointed to a six-year term.   

Urban Family S – Mary Our Queen, St. John Vianney  

Fr. Richard Reiser , pastor, St. John Vianney, to senior associate pastor in the parishes of Urban Family S.   

Fr. Marc Lim , pastor, Mary Our Queen, Omaha, to additional duties as pastor, St. John Vianney, Omaha.   

Fr. Tom Bauwens , from resident and sacramental supply, Mary Our Queen, Omaha, to senior associate pastor in the parishes of Urban Family S.   

Urban Family T – St. Wenceslaus, St. Stephen the Martyr, St. Vincent de Paul, Boys Town: Immaculate Conception  

Fr. David Belt , pastor, St. Stephen the Martyr Parish, Omaha, is reappointed to a six-year term.   

Fr. Tobias Letak , associate pastor, St. Margaret Mary Parish, Omaha, to associate pastor, St. Wenceslaus Parish, Omaha.    

Fr. Andrew Roza , associate pastor , St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Omaha, to pastor of the same.     

Fr. Padraic Stack , associate pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Elkhorn, to associate pastor, St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Omaha.   

Urban Family U – Elkhorn: St. Patrick, Valley: St. John the Evangelist  

Fr. Thomas Fangman , pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Elkhorn, is reappointed to a six-year term.  

Fr. An Duy Phan , associate pastor , All Saints Parish, Cedar County, Holy Family Parish, Cedar County, and St. Andrew Parish, Bloomfield, to senior associate pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Elkhorn.  

Specialized Ministry: Urban Families T & U  

Fr. Andrew Sohm , pastor, St. Peter Parish, Newcastle, St. Joseph Parish, Ponca, and St. Patrick Parish, Jackson, to hospital chaplaincy. This assignment is not yet finalized.    

Rural Families of Parishes   

Rural Family A – Amelia, Atkinson, Boyd County, O’Neill, Stuart  

Rural Family B – Bloomfield, Brunswick, Cedar County, Crofton, Creighton, Niobrara, Verdigre  

Fr. James Keiter , pastor All Saints, Cedar County, Holy Family, Cedar County, and St. Andrew Parish, Bloomfield, takes on additional duties as pastor of the parishes in Rural Family B.    

Fr. Daniel Wittrock , pastor, St. Bernard Parish, Omaha, to senior associate pastor in the parishes of Rural Family B.    

Rural Family C – Coleridge, Hartington, Newcastle, Osmond, Plainview, Ponca, Randolph  

Fr. Owen Korte , pastor, Holy Trinity Parish , Hartington and St. Michael Parish, Coleridge, takes on additional duties as pastor of the parishes of Rural Family C.    

Fr. Kevin Vogel , administrator, St. Joseph Parish, Pierce, St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Randolph, St. Mary of the Seven Dolors, Osmond, ceases as administrator, taking on duties as associate pastor of the parishes of Rural Family C.    

Rural Family D – Dixon, Laurel, Wayne  

Fr. Matthew Capadano , pastor, St. Mary Parish, Wayne, and administrator, St. Anne Parish, Dixon, and St. Mary Parish, Laurel, ceases as administrator and takes on duties as pastor of St. Anne Parish, Dixon, and St. Mary Parish, Laurel.  

Rural Family E – Bancroft, Decatur, Emerson, Homer, Hubbard, Jackson, Lyons, Macy, Pender, Walthill, South Sioux City, Winnebago  

Fr. Mark Beran , pastor, St. Augustine, Winnebago, St. Joseph, Walthill, St. Cornelius, Homer, and Our Lady of Fatima, Macy, is reappointed for a six-year term and takes on additional duties as pastor of the parishes of Rural Family E, not including St. Michael Parish, South Sioux City.    

Fr. Kevin Joyce , pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Tekamah, and Holy Family Parish, Decatur, and administrator of St. Joseph Parish, Lyons, and Holy Cross Parish, Bancroft, to senior associate pastor of the parishes of Rural Family E, not including St. Michael Parish, South Sioux City.    

Fr. Matthew Niggemeyer , associate pastor, St. Mary Parish, West Point, St. Aloysius Parish, Aloys, St. Boniface Parish, Monterey, and St. Anthony Parish, St. Charles, to pastor, St. Michael Parish, South Sioux City.    

Fr. Carl Zoucha , pastor, Holy Name Parish, Omaha, to senior associate pastor, St. Michael Parish, South Sioux City.    

Rural Family F – Aloys, Beemer, Dodge, Howells, Monterey, Olean, St. Charles, West Point, Wisner  

Fr. James Weeder , pastor, St. Mary Parish, West Point, St. Aloysius Parish, Aloys, St. Boniface Parish, Monterey, and St. Anthony Parish, St. Charles, takes on additional duties as pastor, St. Wenceslaus Parish, Dodge, Ss. Peter & Paul Parish, Howells, and St. John Nepomucene Parish, Howells.  

Fr. Walter Jong-à-Kiem to senior associate pastor, St. Mary Parish, West Point, St. Aloysius Parish, Aloys, St. Boniface Parish, Monterey, and St. Anthony Parish, St. Charles,  St. Wenceslaus Parish, Dodge, Ss. Peter & Paul Parish, Howells, and St. John Nepomucene Parish, Howells .  

Rural Family G – Clarkson, Humphrey, Leigh, Lindsay, Tarnov  

Fr. Stanley Schmit , pastor, Ss. Peter & Paul Parish, Howells, St. John Nepomucene Parish, Howells, and Holy Trinity Parish, Heun, to pastor of the parishes in Rural Family G.    

Fr. Matthew Gutowski , pastor St. Wenceslaus Parish, Dodge, Ss. Cyril & Methodius Parish, Clarkson, and Sacred Heart Parish, Olean, to senior associate pastor in the parishes of Rural Family G.    

Rural Family H – Heun, Schuyler  

Fr. Jairo Enrique Congote , pastor, Divine Mercy Parish, Schuyler, to additional duties as pastor of Holy Trinity Parish, Heun.   

Rural Family I – Columbus, Duncan, Platte Center  

Fr. Joseph Miksch , pastor, St. Isidore Parish, Columbus, to additional duties as pastor, St. Joseph Parish, Platte Center.    

Fr. Patrick Harrison , pastor, St. Anthony Parish, Columbus and administrator, St. Bonaventure Parish, Columbus, to additional duties as pastor, St. Bonaventure Parish, Columbus, ceases as administrator and takes on  duties as pastor, St. Bonaventure Parish, Columbus, and takes on additional duties as pastor, St. Stanislaus Parish, Duncan .   

Fr. Taylor Leffler , associate pastor, St. Wenceslaus Parish, Omaha, to associate pastor at St. Anthony Parish, Columbus, St. Bonaventure Parish, Columbus, and St. Stanislaus Parish, Duncan.    

Rural Family J – Albion, Cedar Rapids, Central City, Clarks, Fullerton, Genoa, Krakow, Silver Creek, St. Edward  

Fr. Mark Tomasiewicz , pastor, St. Michael Parish, Albion, and St. Anthony Parish, Cedar Rapids, to additional duties as pastor, St. Edward Parish, St. Edward.    

Fr. William L’Heureux , pastor, St. Edward Parish, St. Edward, S t. Rose of Lima Parish, Genoa, St. Lawrence Parish, Silver Creek, and Ss. Peter & Paul Parish, Krakow, ceases as pastor of St. Edward, and takes on additional duties as pastor, St. Peter Parish, Clarks, St. Peter Parish, Fullerton, & St. Michael Parish, Central City.    

Rural Family K – Clearwater, Deloit, Elgin, Ewing, Neligh, Petersburg, Raeville, Tilden  

Rural Family L – Battle Creek, Madison, Norfolk, Pierce, Stanton  

Fr. Patrick McLaughlin , pastor, Sacred Heart Parish, Norfolk, St. Leonard of Port Maurice Parish, Madison, St. Peter Parish, Stanton, and St. Patrick Parish, Battle Creek, takes on additional duties as pastor, St. Joseph Parish, Pierce. Fr. Gregory Carl and Fr. Brett Jamrog, associate pastors of the same, take on additional duties as associate pastors, St. Joseph Parish, Pierce.     

Ministers of the Metropolitan Tribunal  

The following are reappointed to three-year terms as judges of the Metropolitan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Omaha in both First and Second Instances: Deacon Ronald R. Ryan, Elizabeth A. Sondag, Fr. James R. de Anda, and Fr. Ryan P. Lewis.   

Vicar General  

Fr. Scott Hastings , pastor, St. Joseph Parish, Springfield, vicar for clergy, and judicial vicar, takes on additional duties as vicar general. The duties of the Office of the Vicar for Clergy are amalgamated into the Office of the Vicar General.   

Service outside the Archdiocese  

Fr. Eric Olsen, pastor, St. Francis of Assisi Parish Humphrey, Holy Family Parish in Lindsay, St. Mary Parish in Leigh, and St. Michael Parish in Tarnov, has been granted leave to serve in the Diocese of Fargo.     

Leave of Absence  

Fr. Steven Emanuel , associate pastor, St. Francis of Assisi Parish Humphrey, Holy Family Parish in Lindsay, St. Mary Parish in Leigh, and St. Michael Parish in Tarnov, has been granted a personal, voluntary leave of absence to care for his parents.   

Permanent Deacons  

The following deacons, ordained on May 6 , are assigned as follows:  

Deacon Daniel Buck, to St. Gerald Parish, Ralston.   

Deacon Daniel DeLuca, to St. Peter Parish, Omaha.   

Deacon Patrick Dempsey, to St. Columbkille Parish, Papillion.   

Deacon Rafael Gutiérrez, to Holy Name Parish, Omaha.   

Deacon Craig Martin, to St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, Omaha.   

Deacon Michael Masek, to St. Wenceslaus Parish, Omaha.   

Deacon Rolando Nicolas, to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Omaha.   

Deacon Scott Tylski, to St. Stephen the Martyr Parish, Omaha.   

Deacon Steven Zach, to St. Isidore Parish, Columbus.   

Return to Home Page

© 2023, The Catholic Voice

Type to search

• Advertise with Us
• Diocese of Buffalo

Diocese of Buffalo announces new priest assignments as Road to Renewal continues

Bishop Michael W. Fisher has announced 47 priest assignments in the Diocese of Buffalo signaling an increase in the momentum of the Road to Renewal program that is grouping diocesan parishes into a collaborative model of two to six parishes per family.

The appointments were conferred Wednesday, May 17 and priests had their weekend Masses to communicate their new assignments to their parishioners.

The assignments of 47 priests at one time may be the largest number of priest assignments conferred in the history of the Diocese of Buffalo.

As Bishop Fisher made the assignments, he called his brother priests to remember as in the founding of the diocese some 176 years ago that it is the continuing mission to bring the sacraments to the people.

During the diocese’s early days, five priests ministered to 30,000 Catholics.

“Brothers, I need you. I need you to support the mission of the Church with all of your gifts and expertise,” Bishop Fisher said. “Be supportive of one another and work as a team to provide for our people’s spiritual needs.”

With the current appointments effective June 1, June 5, June 15, and July 1, pastors are assigned to 26 of the 36 Families of Parishes along with two moderators of in solidum families of parishes in the diocese.

Family of Parishes: Assignment Update – May 2023

Downloadable copy of the listing can be found on the Road to Renewal website .

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Road to Renewal

You Might also Like

Get our WNYCatholic newsletter in your inbox today!

All the latest local, national and world Catholic news, messages from our Bishop, stunning photography and inspiring feature stories — twice each week via email.

Email (required) *

First Name *

Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Western New York Catholic. (You can unsubscribe anytime)

Related Stories

• Latest News
• Past Issues
• Product Page

Recent Posts

Discover more from Western New York Catholic

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Assignment changes for priests and deacons beginning July 1

By Anne Marie Amacher The Catholic Messenger

Sixteen priests and four deacons will see assignment changes beginning July 1 when four priests are retiring and one religious order priest is moving out of the Diocese of Davenport, Bishop Thomas Zinkula announced.

Retirements

Father Anthony Herold , 69, will retire. The Fort Madison native graduated from Northeast Missouri State (now Truman State University) and St. Ambrose College in Davenport. He completed his theology studies at the Pontifical North American College in Rome. Bishop Gerald O’Keefe ordained him to the priesthood July 14, 1979 at St. Mary Church-Fort Madison. Father Herold served at St. Paul Parish-Burlington, St. Mary Parish-Clinton and as spiritual director, diocesan vocations director and rector of the former St. Ambrose Seminary-Davenport. He served at St. Mary Parish-Iowa City, St. Patrick Parish-Ottumwa, St. Mary Magdalen Parish-Bloomfield and St. Mary of the Visitation Parish-Ottumwa and in pastoral management for corporate affairs at St. Aloysius Parish-Eldon. He served at Jesus Christ, Prince of Peace Parish-Clinton, Immaculate Conception Parish-Petersville, Ss. John & Paul Parish-Burlington, St. Paul the Apostle Parish-Davenport and as diocesan vicar general. He currently serves as pastor of Sacred Heart Parish-Newton and dean of the Grinnell Deanery.

Father Timothy Regan , 73, will retire. A Wisconsin native, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and completed theology studies at Pope John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts. Bishop O’Keefe ordained him to the priesthood May 30, 1991 at St. Anthony Church-Knoxville. Father Regan served at University Hospitals in Iowa City, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish-Bettendorf, Holy Trinity Parish-Keota, Sacred Heart Parish-Lost Nation, St. James Parish-Toronto and Sacred Heart Parish-Oxford Junction. He served as priest chaplain at Genesis Health System in Davenport and at St. Paul the Apostle Parish-Davenport. He currently serves as a chaplain at University Hospitals in Iowa City.

Father David Wilkening , 74, will retire. The Sigourney native graduated from the University of Northern Iowa-Cedar Falls and completed his theology studies at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. Bishop O’Keefe ordained him to the priesthood June 9, 1979 at St. Mary Church-Sigourney. Father Wilkening served at Sacred Heart Parish-Clinton, St. Mary Parish-Iowa City, St. Mary Magdalen Parish-Bloomfield, and St. Aloysius Parish-Eldon. He also served at St. Joseph Parish-What Cheer, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish-Keswick, St. Joseph Parish-North English, St. Mary Parish-West Point and St. Boniface Parish-Farmington. He also served at St. Mary Parish-Solon, Holy Family Parish-Fort Madison and St. Joseph Parish-Montrose. Currently, he is pastor of St. Patrick Parish-Marengo, St. Joseph Parish-North English and St. Mary Parish-Williamsburg.

Father Stephen Witt , 74, will retire. The Clinton native graduated from St. Ambrose College-Davenport and the University of Iowa. He married Patricia Finkenhoefer in 1974 and was in the workforce for 45 years. Ordained to the diaconate in 1982, he served parishes in Clinton before moving to Grinnell and serving at St. Mary Parish. After his wife’s death in 2001, he discerned a call to the priesthood. He completed theology studies at Sacred Heart School of Theology-Hales Corners, Wisconsin. Bishop Martin Amos ordained him to the priesthood Dec. 15, 2012 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Witt currently serves as pastor of St. Mary Parish-Iowa City and has served that parish and the Newman Catholic Student Center-Iowa City in various roles.

Assignment changes

Father James Betzen, C.PP.S , 69, is being reassigned outside of the Davenport Diocese by his community, the Missionaries of the Precious Blood. Father Betzen currently serves at St. Mary of the Visitation Parish-Ottumwa.

Father Gary Beckman , 64, will become pastor of Holy Family Parish-Fort Madison and St. Joseph Parish-Montrose. The Burlington native studied at Southeastern Community College-Burlington, Western Illinois University-Macomb, Illinois, and graduated from St. Ambrose University with a degree in criminal justice. He worked in law enforcement before studying theology at St. Paul Seminary-St. Paul, Minnesota, and completed theology studies at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary-St. Louis. Bishop William Franklin ordained him to the priesthood June 4, 1995 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. He served at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish-Bettendorf, Holy Family Parish-Davenport, Assumption & St. Patrick Parish-Charlotte, Ss. Mary & Joseph Parish-Sugar Creek and St. Joseph Parish-DeWitt. He also served at St. John the Baptist Parish-Houghton and St. James Parish-St. Paul. He currently serves as pastor of St. Wenceslaus Parish-Iowa City and St. Bernadette Parish-West Branch.

Father James Flattery , 33, will become pastor of St. Mary Parish-Tipton, St. Mary Parish-Mechanicsville and St. Bernadette Parish-West Branch. The Colfax native graduated from AIB College of Business-Des Moines and went to work for Target Corp. in Altoona and Ankeny. He graduated from Conception Seminary-Conception, Missouri, and completed his theology studies at University of St. Mary of the Lake–Mundelein Seminary in Mundelein, Illinois. Bishop Thomas Zinkula ordained him to the priesthood June 6, 2020 at Immaculate Conception Church-Colfax. Father Flattery currently serves at Divine Mercy Parish-Burlington/West Burlington and St. Mary Parish-Dodgeville.

Father Scott Foley , 38, will remain as pastor of St. Mary Parish-Grinnell and add the assignment of pastor of St. Patrick Parish-Brooklyn. The Williamsburg native graduated from the University of Iowa with a BSE in civil engineering and a minor in business. He completed his theology studies at the Pontifical North American College-Rome. He worked as an engineer before entering the seminary. He also served as an English teacher at Mokpo Catholic University in Mokpo, South Korea, and worked with the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta, India. Bishop Zinkula ordained him to the priesthood June 1, 2019 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Foley has served at St. Paul the Apostle Parish-Davenport, Our Lady of Victory Parish-Davenport and Assumption High School-Davenport. He currently serves as pastor of the Grinnell parish.

Father Marty Goetz , 54, will become pastor at Sacred Heart Parish-Newton. The Keokuk native attended Southeastern Community College and St. Ambrose University. He completed theology studies at Mundelein Seminary-St. Mary of the Lake. Bishop O’Keefe ordained him to the priesthood May 29, 1992 at All Saints Church-Keokuk. Father Goetz served at St. Patrick Parish-Iowa City, Our Lady of Victory Parish-Davenport and Prince of Peace Parish-Clinton. After a leave of absence, he returned to active ministry in 2001. He also served at Holy Trinity Parish-Keota, St. Mary Parish-Sigourney and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish-Keswick and as diocesan director of vocations. He also served at Holy Trinity Parish-Richmond, St. Mary Parish-Riverside and St. Joseph Parish-Wellman. He currently serves as pastor of Divine Mercy Parish, formed by the merger of Ss. John & Paul Parish-Burlington and Ss. Mary & Patrick Parish-West Burlington. He also serves as pastor of St. Mary Parish-Dodgeville.

Father Jacob Greiner , 41, will become pastor of Divine Mercy Parish-Burlington/West Burlington and St. Mary Parish-Dodgeville and continue as diocesan director of seminarians and of vocations. The Keota native graduated from the University of Notre Dame and completed theology studies at St. Paul Seminary-St. Paul. Bishop Amos ordained him to the priesthood May 25, 2013 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Greiner served at Ss. Mary & Mathias Parish-Muscatine, St. Anthony Parish-Knoxville, Sacred Heart Parish-Melcher and priest moderator of St. Andrew Parish-Blue Grass. He currently serves as pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish-Davenport.

Father Patrick Hilgendorf , 53, will become pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish-Davenport. The Clinton native graduated from Mount St. Clare College-Clinton, St. Ambrose University-Davenport and completed his theology studies at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary. Bishop Franklin ordained him to the priesthood May 17, 1997 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Hilgendorf has served at St. Paul the Apostle Parish-Davenport, St. Patrick and St. Wenceslaus parishes in Iowa City, Ss. John & Paul Parish-Burlington and Ss. Mary & Patrick Parish-West Burlington. He currently serves as pastor of St. Patrick Parish-Ottumwa and St. Mary Magdalen Parish-Bloomfield.

Father John Lamansky , 32, will serve as pastor of St. Wenceslaus Parish-Iowa City with ministry to the Hispanic community at St. Patrick Parish-Iowa City. A Fairfield-area native, he graduated from Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio, completed advanced studies at Mundelein Seminary, and completed theology studies at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas-Rome. Bishop Zinkula ordained him to the priesthood June 30, 2018 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Lamansky served at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish-Bettendorf and currently serves as parochial vicar of Jesus Christ, Prince of Peace Parish-Clinton and chaplain of Prince of Peace Catholic School.

Father Robert Lathrop , 64, while remaining pastor of Holy Trinity Parish-Keota and St. Mary Parish-Sigourney, and administrator of Ss. Joseph and Cabrini Parish-Richland, will add duties as pastor of St. Joseph Parish-North English. Born in Orlando, Florida, he moved around the country as his father served in the military. Father Lathrop served in the military from 1977-1995 and took early retirement to pursue undergraduate studies. He graduated from St. Ambrose University and completed theology studies at Mundelein Seminary. Bishop Franklin ordained him to the priesthood June 9, 2001 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Lathrop served at Ss. Mary & Mathias Parish-Muscatine, Our Lady of Victory Parish-Davenport and All Saints Parish-Keokuk. He also served at St. Joseph Parish-Montrose, St. Patrick Parish-Georgetown, St. Peter Parish-Lovilia, St. Patrick Parish-Melrose and All Saints Parish-Keokuk. He currently serves as pastor of the Keota and Sigourney parishes and as administrator in Richland.

Father Khoa Le , 40, will become parochial vicar at Jesus Christ, Prince of Peace Parish-Clinton. Father Le, a native of Vietnam, graduated from the University of Hue with a bachelor’s degree in physics. He studied for the priesthood at Major Seminary of Hue. Bishop Francis Xavier Le Van Hong ordained him to the priesthood June 12, 2015 at Phu Cam Cathedral in Vietnam. He later earned a master of pastoral theology degree from Seton Hall University in New Jersey. He has served at Ss. Mary & Mathias Parish-Muscatine since arriving in the diocese in 2021.

Father Scott Lemaster , 66, while remaining as pastor at St. Bridget Parish-Victor, will be relieved as pastor of St. Patrick Parish-Brooklyn and assigned as pastor of St. Patrick Parish-Marengo. The Muscatine native graduated from St. Ambrose College, Aquinas Institute-St. Louis and studied theology at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, St. John’s School of Theology and Seminary, Collegeville-Minnesota, and Aquinas Institute-St. Louis. Bishop O’Keefe ordained him to the priesthood June 22, 1985 at St. Mary Church-Muscatine. Father Lemaster has served at Our Lady of Victory Parish-Davenport, Sacred Heart Parish-Kinross, Holy Trinity Parish-Richmond, St. Joseph Parish-Wellman, St. Patrick Parish-Melrose, St. Patrick Parish-Georgetown and St. Peter Parish-Lovilia. He has also served at Assumption & St. Patrick Parish-Charlotte, Ss. Mary & Joseph Parish-Sugar Creek, Immaculate Conception Parish-Petersville and St. Patrick Parish-Delmar. He currently serves as pastor of the Brooklyn and Victor parishes.

Father Symphorien Lopoke , 54, will become pastor of St. Mary Parish-Iowa City where he currently serves as parochial vicar.

Father Dale Mallory , 31, while continuing to serve as parochial vicar of St. Mary of the Visitation Parish-Ottumwa, will also serve at St. Patrick Parish-Ottumwa and St. Mary Magdalen Parish-Bloomfield. Born in Massachusetts, he graduated from the University of Iowa and worked several years before discerning a call to the priesthood. He completed theology studies at St. Paul Seminary School of Theology at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. Bishop Zinkula ordained him to the priesthood June 4, 2022 at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Davenport. He assisted at St. Anthony Parish-Davenport and currently serves at St. Mary of the Visitation-Ottumwa.

Father Francis Mensah , 40, while remaining pastor of St. Peter Parish-Cosgrove, St. Mary Parish-Oxford and serving as defender of the bond for the diocesan marriage tribunal, will add duties as pastor of St. Mary Parish-Williamsburg. He grew up in Ghana, Africa and earned degrees from St. Paul Seminary-Accra, and St. Peter Seminary-Cape Coast, the Pontifical Urbaniana University-Rome, Pontifical Gregorian University-Rome and Pontifical Lateran University-Rome. Bishop Matthias Kobina Nketsiah ordained him to the priesthood Sept. 25, 2010 in Cape Coast, Ghana. Father Mensah has served at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana; a senior high school in Agona Swedru, Ghana; in radio evangelization in Ghana; and as a parochial collaborator at St. Barbara Parish in the Diocese of Rome. He came to the Davenport Diocese in 2022.

Father Richard Okumu , 66, will serve as a senior priest at St. Thomas More Parish-Coralville and St. Patrick Parish-Iowa City. Born in Uganda, East Africa, he attended Katigando National Major Seminary and earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. He also studied at Cambridge University in England and did theology studies at Gregorian University in Rome. Bishop O’Keefe ordained him to the priesthood Aug. 8, 1981 at Sacred Heart Church-Newton. Father Okumu served at Assumption High School-Davenport, St. Patrick Parish-Iowa City, Sacred Heart Parish-Kinross, Holy Trinity Parish-Richmond and St. Joseph Parish-Wellman. After a leave of absence for studies, he served at St. Peter Parish-Cosgrove, St. Michael Parish-Holbrook, St. Bridget Parish-Victor, St. Patrick Parish in Brooklyn and Church of the Visitation Parish in Camanche. He currently serves as pastor of St. Mary Parish-Mechanicsville and St. Mary Parish-Tipton.

Father David Paintsil , 44, recently arrived in the Davenport Diocese and will become parochial vicar of St. Mary Parish-Iowa City. A native of Africa, he attended St. Peter Regional Seminary at Cape Coast, Ghana, did theological studies at the Pontifical Urbaniana University-Rome and advanced studies at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. Cardinal Peter Turkson ordained him to the priesthood Nov. 12, 2005 at St. Francis Cathedral at Cape Coast. Father Paintsil has served at Mary, Queen of Peace, St. Edward and Immaculate Conception of Mary Grotto parishes, all in Cape Coast.

Father Joseph Phung , 65, will become pastor at St. Patrick Parish-Iowa City. Born in Vietnam, he began theology studies there before his school closed. He immigrated to the United States in 1993 and studied at St. Ambrose University. He completed his theology studies at Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Bishop Franklin ordained him to the priesthood June 24, 2000 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Phung served at St. Mary Parish-Iowa City, Sacred Heart Cathedral-Davenport, where he also served the Vietnamese Catholic community, and St. Alphonsus Parish-Mount Pleasant. He currently serves as pastor of Holy Family Parish-Fort Madison and St. Joseph Parish-Montrose.

Father Joseph Sia , 48, will become pastor of St. Patrick Parish and St. Mary parishes in Ottumwa and St. Mary Magdalen Parish-Bloomfield. Born in Manila, Philippines, he earned a BS in basic medical sciences and a doctor of medicine from the University of Philippines. Before entering the priesthood, he was a university research associate at the Institute of Human Genetics, University of the Philippines. He served as a graduate research assistant at the University of Iowa before completing theology studies at Mundelein Seminary. Bishop Amos ordained him to the priesthood May 10, 2008 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Father Sia served at Ss. Mary & Mathias Parish-Muscatine; St. Joseph Parish-Columbus Junction, St. Joseph Parish-West Liberty and as the diocesan director of vocations. He also served at St. Mary Parish-Davenport and as minister to the Hispanic community there, and at St. Bernadette Parish-West Branch. Currently he serves as pastor of St. Patrick Parish-Iowa City and as diocesan director of recently ordained.

Deacon Christopher Kabat , while remaining at St. Wenceslaus Parish-Iowa City, is relieved of duties at St. Bernadette Parish-West Branch.

Deacon David Montgomery , while remaining at St. Peter Parish-Cosgrove and St. Mary Parish-Oxford, will also serve St. Mary Parish-Williamsburg.

Deacon John Osborne , while remaining at St. Mary Parish-Grinnell, will also serve St. Patrick Parish-Brooklyn.

Deacon Joseph Rohret , while remaining at St. Peter Parish-Cosgrove and St. Mary Parish-Oxford, will also serve St. Mary Parish-Williamsburg.

Support  The Catholic Messenger’s  mission to inform, educate and inspire the faithful of the Diocese of Davenport – and beyond!  Subscribe to the print and/or e-edition , or make a  one-time donation , today!

More from the Catholic Messenger

2 thoughts on “ Assignment changes for priests and deacons beginning July 1 ”

I would like the e edition.

We will forward your request to our business/circulation coordinator. Thank you.

Comments are closed.

• Bishop Kettler's Column
• Bishop Neary's Column

Parish Festivals 2024

Silent retreat is healing and can be encounter with God’s love, say retreatants

Growing community: Annual tractor and seed blessing tradition continues

Photos of the week April 26, 2024

Top Vatican cardinal says Pope Francis’ reforms will continue

Archbishop Wenski: Deportations to Haiti ‘unconscionable’ amid violence, instability

• Faith in the Public Arena
• From the Editor

No, Richard Dawkins, cultural Christianity is not enough

Does every moment count?

‘It is the Lord!’

• Ask Father Tom
• Food for the Journey | Fr. Ron Rolheiser
• Igniting our Faith | Bishop Robert Barron
• In Light of Faith
• In the know with Father Joe
• Marriage Matters
• Parenting Journey
• Question Corner | Fr. Kenneth Doyle
• Sunday Scripture Readings
• Thanksgiving
• Theology 101

Father Ron Rolheiser: Civility Has Left the Building

Easter and Pentecost

Praying through the headlines in the year of prayer

• Book Reviews
• Movie Reviews
• Video Game Reviews

Sister best known for ministry to migrant shares her artwork that tells their stories

Catholic chat bot: Putting AI at the service of the church

“Irena’s Vow,” Heroism in the Face of Evil

• Catholic Social Teaching
• Eucharistic Revival
• Bishop Kettler's Pastoral Letter
• El Visitante
• Laudato Si Study Session
• Melrose Church Fire
• Pastoral Planning
• Safe Environment Articles
• The 7 Sacraments
• YAYA Awards

6 things you need to know about the second round of Synod listening

Father Ron Rolheiser: Reindeer Games

Photos of the week Feb. 23, 2024

Cardenal: La vocación es una llamada a la felicidad; el camino correcto se discierne en la oración

Santo del Mes: Salvador Lara Puente Y Los Mártires De Laguerra Cristera

El Papa y su Consejo de Cardenales prosiguen el debate sobre el papel de las mujeres en la Iglesia

• Around the Diocese

New priest assignments announced

The Most Reverend Patrick M. Neary, C.S.C., Bishop of the Diocese of Saint Cloud, makes the following appointments in the Diocese of Saint Cloud, effective June 28, 2023:

The Most Reverend Patrick M. Neary, C.S.C., Bishop of the Diocese of Saint Cloud, after presentation by the Reverend Jilson Mathew Kakkattupillil, V.C., Provincial Superior, St. Joseph Province, Vincentian Congregation, makes the following appointments in the Diocese of Saint Cloud, effective June 28, 2023:

The Most Reverend Patrick M. Neary, C.S.C., Bishop of the Diocese of Saint Cloud, makes the following appointment in the Diocese of Saint Cloud, effective July 1, 2023:

Given at the Chancery Joseph C. Towalski, Chancellor Saint Cloud, Minnesota May 19, 2023

Author: The Central Minnesota Catholic

The Central Minnesota Catholic is the magazine for the Diocese of St. Cloud.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

2023 priest assignments announced

CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter J. Jugis announces the following priest assignments, effective July 11, 2023, unless otherwise noted:

• Father Darren Balkey , parochial vicar of St. Leo the Great Parish in Winston-Salem, will become parochial vicar of St. Matthew Parish in Charlotte.
• Father Brian Becker , pastor of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Swannanoa, will become the new director of the Propaedeutic Stage of Formation at St. Joseph College Seminary in Mount Holly. He will continue serving as promoter of vocations for the Diocese of Charlotte.

Father Oscar Benavides has been appointed as parochial vicar at St. Gabriel Parish in Charlotte and will be helping on Saturdays at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Charlotte, effective Oct. 1.

Newly ordained Father Christopher Brock will become parochial vicar at Holy Cross Church in Kernersville.

Redemptorist Father Blas Caceres will serve as pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Kannapolis, effective Aug. 16, 2023, succeeding Redemptorist Father Fabio Marin Morales.

Redemptorist Father Jerome Chavarria , pastor of St. James Parish in Concord, and Redemptorist Father Charles Donovan , parochial vicar, are being reassigned by their order, effective Aug. 16, 2023.

• Father Christian Cook , pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Hendersonville, will become pastor of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Swannanoa.
• Father Alfonso Gamez , parochial vicar of Our Lady of Mercy Parish and Our Lady of Fatima Mission in Winston-Salem, will become parochial vicar of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Charlotte.
• Father José Enrique Gonzalez Gaytán , parochial vicar of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Charlotte, will become pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Lenoir.
• Father Andres F. Gutierrez , a new priest to the Diocese of Charlotte, will become pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Hendersonville.
• Father Stephen Hoyt , pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Lenoir, will become the chaplain to Maryfield at Pennybyrn in High Point.

Father Aaron Huber , a parochial vicar at St. Mark Parish in Huntersville, will become the full-time chaplain at Christ the King Catholic High School in Huntersville while being in residence at the rectory at St. Mark Church.

• Father Thomas J. Kessler , a parochial vicar at St. Matthew Parish in Charlotte and former pastor of St. Philip the Apostle Parish in Statesville, will become parochial vicar at St. Luke Parish in Mint Hill, effective Aug. 25.
• Vincentian Father Bruce J. Krause is appointed parochial vicar of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Charlotte, effective June 29, 2023.

Father Hosup Kwon of the Diocese of Daegu in Korea will replace Father Hyosuk Lee as the priest in ministry to St. Peter Yu Catholic Community in Greensboro, effective July 28, 2023. Father Lee will return to the Daegu diocese Aug. 5, 2023.

Missionary Society of St. Paul Father Anthony Mbanefo will serve as parochial administrator of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Mars Hill and Sacred Heart Mission in Burnsville, effective Oct. 16, following the retirement of pastor Father Frederick M. Werth Jr. on Oct. 13.

• Father Jacob Mlakar , parochial vicar of Holy Cross Parish and assistant chaplain at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, will be assigned to full-time studies at the Angelicum in Rome to complete his degree in Spiritual Theology.

Redemptorist Father Fabio Marin Morales , pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Kannapolis, is being reassigned by his order, effective Aug. 16, 2023.

Vincentian Father Hugo Medellin , parochial vicar at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Charlotte, is being reassigned by his order, effective Aug. 1, 2023.

Vincentian Father Marvin A. Navas will serve as pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Charlotte, effective Aug. 1, 2023.

• Father Felix Nkafu , parochial vicar of St. Leo the Great Parish in Winston-Salem, will return to the Diocese of Buea in Cameroon, effective Aug. 28, 2023.

Newly ordained Father Chinonso Nnebe-Agumadu will become a parochial vicar at St. Mark Parish in Huntersville.

Father David F. O’Connor will serve as parochial vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish in Hendersonville as of Sept. 19, 2023. He is coming to the Diocese of Charlotte from the Diocese of Huancané, Peru.

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales Father Patrick O’Connor , will serve as pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in High Point, effective Sept. 1, 2023.

• Father Bernard Oleru , of the Missionaries of St. Paul of Nigeria, will become pastor of St. Philip the Apostle Parish in Statesville. He served as parochial vicar at St. Therese Parish in Mooresville and most recently is returning to the Diocese of Charlotte from an extended Spanish immersion course.

Redemptorist Father Glenn Parker , parochial vicar at St. James Parish in Concord, will become pastor effective Aug. 16, 2023. He will be joined by two new parochial vicars: Redemptorist Father Luyen Dau and Redemptorist Father Oscar Rojas .

Newly ordained Father Peter Rusciolelli will become parochial vicar at St. Leo the Great Parish in Winston-Salem.

• Father Juan Miguel Sanchez , parochial vicar of St. Matthew Parish and part-time assistant chaplain at Charlotte Catholic High School in Charlotte, will become parochial vicar of Our Lady of Mercy Parish and Our Lady of Fatima Mission in Winston-Salem.
• Father Philip Scarcella , pastor of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Charlotte, announces his retirement from active ministry as of Dec. 31, 2023. He will continue to assist at the parish until a new pastor is appointed, expected in February 2024.

Father Ramiro Tijerino has been appointed to Hispanic Ministry at Our Lady of the Assumption and St. John Neumann parishes in Charlotte, effective Aug. 1.

Father Jonathan Torres , a parochial vicar at St. Matthew Parish in Charlotte, will become the full-time chaplain at Charlotte Catholic High School while being in residence at the rectory at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte.

Father Henry Tutuwan , pastor of St. Benedict the Moor Parish in Winston-Salem and Good Shepherd Mission in King, will return to the Diocese of Buea in Cameroon.

Father Melchesideck Yumo , a parochial vicar at St. Mark Parish in Huntersville, will become the parochial administrator for St. Benedict the Moor Parish in Winston-Salem and Good Shepherd Mission in King.

— Catholic News Herald

• All Offices & Ministries
• Bishop's Office
• Business & Finance
• Campus Ministry
• Catholic Charities Maine
• Catholic Foundation
• Cemeteries & Funerals
• Clergy & Religious
• Communications
• Deaf Ministry
• Divorce Ministry
• Ecumenism & Interfaith Affairs
• Elder Services
• Hispanic Ministry
• Health Services
• Human Resources
• Job Openings
• Lifelong Faith Formation
• Prayer & Faith Resources
• Prison Ministry
• Public Policy
• Project Rachel
• Property Management
• Protecting God's Children
• Retreat Centers
• Risk Management
• Safe Environment
• Saint Andre Home
• About the Diocese
• Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
• Catholic Sites in Maine
• Contact the Diocese
• Deacon Directory
• Priest Directory
• Staff Directory
• Bishop Robert Deeley
• Bishop James Ruggieri
• Catholic Schools
• About our Catholic Schools
• Catholic Schools Week
• Find a School
• Open Houses & Tours
• School News
• Superintendent’s Office
• Why choose a Catholic education
• Catholic News Links
• News from around the Diocese
• Relevant Radio
• Catholic Appeal
• Catholic Foundation of Maine
• Make an Appeal Gift
• Parish Online Giving
• Prayer for the Success of the Catholic Appeal
• Missions/CRS Office
• Pontifical Mission Societies
• Catholic Relief Services
• Mass Cards & Stipends
• Society for the Propagation of the Faith
• Ways to Help
• World Mission Rosary
• Code of Ethics
• Counseling Assistance
• Filing a Sexual Abuse Report
• Independent Audit of Safe Environment
• Office of Professional Responsibility
• Office of Safe Environment
• Reporting Misconduct
• Safe Environment Training
• Office of Vocations
• Religious Brothers
• Women Religious

• Diocesan Home
• Vocations Home
• The Life of a Priest in Maine
• The Path to the Priesthood
• The History of the Presbyterate
• Vocation Stories
• Online Discernment Resources
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Applying for Seminary
• Totus Tuus Maine
• What is Totus Tuus?
• Participant Registration
• Our Totus Tuus Teams
• Support Totus Tuus
• Teach for Totus Tuus
• Contact Information

Parishes/Masses

Bishop Deeley Announces Seven Priest Assignments and Two Retirements

Bishop Robert Deeley has announced seven priest assignments and two priest retirements, all effective on Wednesday, July 5, 2023.

Assignments

Fr. Patrick Agbodi, SMA , has been appointed administrator of Corpus Christi Parish (St. John the Baptist Church in Winslow and Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Church in Waterville). Fr. Agbodi, who is currently parochial vicar of All Saints Parish in Brunswick, was ordained to the priesthood on July 1, 2000, at St. Patrick Church in Asaba, Nigeria. Since his ordination, he has served as a parish priest in Liberia, Nigeria, and Tanzania, where he also served as a director of vocations and vice regional superior. Since his arrival in Maine, he has served in Augusta and in his current role at All Saints Parish. Fr. Agbodi is a member of the Society of African Missions (SMA).

Fr. Roland Berngeh has been appointed administrator of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish (Immaculate Conception Church, Calais; St. Anne Church, Perry; St. Ann Church, Indian Township; St. James the Greater Church, Baileyville; St. John the Evangelist Church, Pembroke; and St. Joseph Church, Eastport). Fr. Berngeh is currently parochial vicar at Stella Maris Parish in Bucksport, St. Joseph Parish in Ellsworth, and Parish of the Transfiguration of the Lord in Bar Harbor. A native of Jakiri, Cameroon, Fr. Berngeh was ordained to the priesthood on April 10, 1985, and since his ordination, has served in a variety of roles at parishes in Cameroon and as a director of vocations and vicar general for the Diocese of Kumbo. Since his arrival in Maine, he has served at his three current parishes. Fr. Berngeh earned a master’s degree in educational counseling from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California.

Fr. Emile Dubé has been appointed rector of St. Ignatius Chapel in Northeast Harbor. This appointment is in addition to his current assignments as pastor of the Parish of the Transfiguration of the Lord (Holy Redeemer Church, Bar Harbor; St. Peter Church, Manset; Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, Little Cranberry Island), Stella Maris Parish (St. Vincent de Paul Church, Bucksport; Our Lady of Holy Hope Church, Castine; St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, Stonington), and St. Joseph Parish (St. Joseph Church, Ellsworth; Blue Hill Mission, Blue Hill; Our Lady of the Lake Church, Dedham; St. Margaret Church, Winter Harbor). A native of Lewiston and a graduate of St. Dominic Regional High School, Fr. Dubé was ordained to the priesthood on May 26, 2012, at Holy Family Church in Lewiston. Prior to his ordination, he served for 35 years as a brother in the Catholic religious order of the Salesians of St. John Bosco in New York. Since his ordination, he has served in Caribou, Brunswick, Dexter, Dover-Foxcroft, Milo, Pittsfield, and in his current parish assignments. 

Fr. Hyacinth Fornkwa  has been appointed administrator of Holy Spirit Parish (St. Martha Church, Kennebunk; St. Mary Church, Wells; All Saints Church, Ogunquit). Fr. Fornkwa is currently administrator of Holy Family Parish in Greenville and St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Jackman. A native of Cameroon, he was ordained to the priesthood on March 27, 2008, and has served at parishes and schools in Cameroon for nearly ten years. Fr. Fornkwa also served as a dean and a member of the presbyteral council in the Diocese of Kumbo for six years. He fluently speaks five languages. Since his arrival in Maine, he has served in Camden, Rockland, Belfast, Islesboro, Vinalhaven, and North Haven.

Fr. Selvaraj Kasi, HGN , has been appointed administrator of Holy Family Parish in Greenville and St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Jackman. Fr. Kasi is currently parochial vicar of the Portland Peninsula and Island Parishes. A native of Tamil Nadu, India, Fr. Kasi was ordained to the priesthood on June 29, 2013, in Tiruvannamalai. Since his ordination, he has served in Tanzania in a variety of roles, including as a school headmaster, as his congregation’s mission superior, and teaching and caring for residents at a hostel. Since his arrival in Maine, Fr. Kasi has served in Caribou, Presque Isle, Portage, Washburn, Fort Fairfield, Mars Hill, Limestone, Ashland, Stockholm, Lewiston, Lisbon Falls, Sabattus, Fort Kent, St. Agatha, Madawaska, and in his current parish assignments. Fr. Kasi is a member of the Heralds of Good News (HGN).

Fr. Joseph Lukong has been appointed parochial vicar at Parish of the Transfiguration of the Lord (Holy Redeemer Church, Bar Harbor; St. Peter Church, Manset; Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, Little Cranberry Island), Stella Maris Parish (St. Vincent de Paul Church, Bucksport; Our Lady of Holy Hope Church, Castine; St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, Stonington), and St. Joseph Parish (St. Joseph Church, Ellsworth; Blue Hill Mission, Blue Hill; Our Lady of the Lake Church, Dedham; St. Margaret Church, Winter Harbor). Since his ordination to the priesthood in 2002, Fr. Lukong has spent two decades serving as a parish priest and manager of schools in his native Diocese of Kumbo in Cameroon. He also served as rector of St. Theresa Cathedral in Kumbo, the same church where he was baptized and was an altar server. Fr. Lukong has been in residence at Stella Maris Parish since his arrival in Maine.

Fr. Brad Morin has been appointed director of vocations for the Diocese of Portland and parochial vicar of Parish of the Resurrection of the Lord (Holy Family Church, Old Town; Our Lady of Wisdom Church, Orono; St. Ann Church, Bradley; St. Ann Church, Indian Island). Fr. Morin is currently pastor of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish in Calais. Born in Upper Frenchville, Fr. Morin was ordained to the priesthood on June 6, 2014, at St. David Church in Madawaska. Since his ordination, he has served in Bangor, Brewer, Hampden, Winterport, Saco, Biddeford, Lyman, Old Orchard Beach, and in his current parish assignments.

Retirements

Fr. Daniel Baillargeon , pastor of Corpus Christi Parish (Notre Dame de Perpetual Secours Church in Waterville and St. John the Baptist Church in Winslow), will retire from active ministry. Fr. Baillargeon was ordained to the priesthood on May 26, 2007, at Holy Family Church in his native Old Town. Since his ordination, he has served in Waterville, Winslow, Fairfield, Vassalboro, Oakland, Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Lyman, Biddeford, Bangor, Brewer, Hampden, and Winterport.

Fr. Fredrick Morse , pastor of Holy Spirit Parish (St. Martha Church, Kennebunk; St. Mary Church, Wells; All Saints Church, Ogunquit), will retire from active ministry. Fr. Morse was ordained to the priesthood on June 24, 1995, at St. John Church in his native Bangor. Since his ordination, he has served in Wells, Kennebunk, Ogunquit, Brunswick, Bath, Boothbay Harbor, Richmond, Newcastle, Harpswell, Fort Kent, Daigle, South Portland, Portland, and Peaks Island. He has also served as chaplain at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Portland

Telephone: 207-773-6471

Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland 510 Ocean Avenue Portland, ME 04103-4936 Email Us

Follow the Diocese

Follow Bishop Deeley

• Archives & Records
• About the Newman Center
• UMaine Orono Campus Ministry
• Catholic Funeral Rites
• Funeral Planning
• Three Beliefs
• Seminarian Information Page
• Religious Orders of Men
• Support Services
• Dental Care
• Disability Services
• End-of-Life Care
• Hospital Ministry
• Pregnancy Support
• Saint André Home
• Employee Benefits
• Misconduct Reports
• Sexual Harassment Protection
• Daughters of Isabella
• Knights of Columbus
• Maine Right to Life
• Enriching Marriage
• Marriage Preparation
• Natural Family Planning
• Church Teaching
• Marriage: Unique for a Reason
• Por Tu Matrimonio
• Annulments and the Setting of Wedding Dates
• Canonical Services
• Marriage Norms and Documents
• Office of Life Long Formation
• Prayer for Marriage
• Silver & Gold Mass
• Holiday Prayers/Blessings
• Adult Formation Sample Resources
• Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults
• Young Adult
• Adolescent Catechesis
• Catholic Youth Leadership Team (CYLT)
• Diocesan Youth Day
• For Youth Ministry Leaders
• Resources for Helping Hurting Teens
• Catechemenate (R.C.I.A.)
• COVID 19 Response
• Youth Ministry Leaders
• Lifelong Faith Formation Association (LFFA)
• Pastoral Life Coordinator (PLC)
• PCL Certification
• Ongoing Formation for Catechetical Leaders
• Celebrate Evangelization and Catechesis
• Rachel's Vineyard Retreat After-Care
• Gatherings & Events
• Faith Formation
• Sacrament Formation
• Parish Leaders
• Courage Ministry
• Faith Formation at Any Age
• Young Adult Ministry
• Bible, Catechism, Etc.
• Office of Worship
• Charismatic Renewal
• Echoing God’s Word
• Traditional Catholic Prayers
• Open House Events and Tours
• Scholarships
• World Mission Sunday
• Circle of Grace Annual Parish Form
• The Path to Priesthood
• The History of Our Presbyterate
• Upcoming Events
• Altar Server Festival
• Resources for Families and Educators
• Participant Registration and Info
• Documents and Forms
• Teach for Totus Tuus!
• Andrew Bailey
• Erin Donlon
• Hoa Tien Nguyen
• Lam Thanh Vo
• Matthew Valles
• Thanh Duc Pham
• Vinh Nguyen
• Women Religious Communities
• Featured Community
• Parish Prayer for Vocations

New Pastoral Assignments

2023 Pastoral Assignments Announced

Bishop Edward M. Rice announced the following clergy assignments effective Saturday, July 1, 2023, unless otherwise noted.

“Please keep these priests in your prayers as they adjust to their new assignments,” said Bishop Rice. “Please pray too, for their former parishioners and new parishioners during this time of transition.”

New Pastoral Changes

Reverend Victor Anokwute

Concluding: Assignment as Parochial Administrator of Sacred Heart Parish, in Caruthersville, and Immaculate Conception Parish, in New Madrid. Continuing: Assignment as Pastor of St. Teresa Parish, in Glennonville, and St. Ann Parish, in Malden.

Reverend Charles Dunn

New Appointment:  Pastor of St. Mary Parish in Seneca. Continuing: Assignment as Pastor of St. Canera Parish in Neosho and Nativity of Our Lord Mission Church in Noel.

Reverend Rick Jones

New Appointment: Parochial Administrator of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Fredericktown. Continuing: Assignment as Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, in Cape Girardeau.

The Very Reverend Allan Saunders

Concluding: Assignment as Parochial Administrator of St. Denis Parish, in Benton, and St. Lawrence Parish, in New Hamburg. Continuing: Assignment as Pastor of St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral, in Cape Girardeau, and historical Old St. Vincent Chapel of Ease, in Cape Girardeau.

The Very Reverend Joseph Weidenbenner

Concluding: Assignment as Pastor of St. Mary Parish, in Seneca. Continuing: Assignment as Pastor of St. Mary Parish, in Joplin, and Chaplain at McAuley Catholic High School, in Joplin.

Named Pastor

Reverend Tuan Van Nguyen, CRM

New Appointment:  Previously the Parochial Administrator, Fr. Tuan Nguyen, CRM, is now appointed Pastor of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish, in El Dorado Springs, and St. Peter the Apostle Mission Church, in Stockton.

Reverend Brian Straus

New Appointment: Previously the Parochial Administrator, Fr. Brian Straus is now appointed Pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, in Joplin. Continuing: Role as Director/Chaplain of Catholic Campus Ministry at Missouri Southern State University, in Joplin. Concluding: Role as Lead Chaplain of McAuley Catholic High School and as a diocesan Regional Vocation Promoter.

Reverend Tomasz Wilk, OSPPE

New Appointment: Previously the Parochial Administrator, Fr. Tomasz Wilk, OSPPE, is now appointed Pastor of St. Augustine Parish, in Kelso, and St. Joseph Parish, in Scott City.

Parochial Administrators

Reverend Daniel Belken

New Appointment: Parochial Administrator of St. Denis Parish, in Benton, and St. Lawrence Parish, in New Hamburg. Continuing: Role as diocesan Associate Director of the Office of Worship and Liturgy. Concluding: Assignments as a diocesan Associate Vocation Promoter and Lead Chaplain of Notre Dame Regional High School, Cape Girardeau.

Reverend Suresh Samala

New Appointment: Parochial Administrator of Immaculate Conception Parish, in New Madrid, and Sacred Heart Parish, in Caruthersville. Concluding: Assignment as Parochial Administrator of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, in Fredericktown.

Reverend Pompeyo Tan, Jr.

New Appointment: Parochial Administrator of St. Joseph Parish, in Springfield. Continuing: He remains Chaplain to the Filipino Community, in Springfield. Concluding: Assignment as Parochial Vicar of Holy Trinity Parish, in Springfield. He remains Chaplain to the Filipino Community.

Reverend Timothy Tran, CRM, JCL

New Appointment: Parochial Administrator of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, in Ozark. Concluding: Assignment as Parochial Vicar of St. Agnes Cathedral, in Springfield. Continuing: Role as the diocesan Coordinator of the Tribunal.

Parochial Vicars

Reverend Jesse Hiett

New Appointment: Parochial Administrator of St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral Parish, in Cape Girardeau, Old St. Vincent Chapel of Ease, in Cape Girardeau, and Lead Chaplain of Notre Dame Regional High School, in Cape Girardeau.

Reverend Audrey Troya Toloza

New Appointment: Parochial Vicar of St. Mary Parish, in Seneca. Continuing: Assignment as Parochial Vicar of St. Canera Parish, in Neosho, and Nativity of Our Lord Mission Church, in Noel.

Leaving the Diocese

Reverend Karl Barrman, OSB

Concluding: Assignment as Pastor at St. Joseph Parish, in Springfield, to return to his religious community, the Benedictine Fathers at Conception Abbey, in Conception, MO.

Thank you, Fr. Karl, for your service to the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, at St. Joseph in Springfield.

Reverend José Marino Novoa, CMF

Concluding: Assignment as Parochial Vicar at St. Ann Parish, in Carthage, and Sacred Heart Parish, in Webb City, to return to his religious community, the Claretian Missionaries United States-Canada Province, in Chicago.

Thank you, Fr. José, for your service to the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau.

Reverend Joji Vincent

Temporary Assignment

New Appointment: Due to health reasons, Rev. Joji Vincent will take on a three-year appointment in the Diocese of Las Vegas, Nevada. Concluding: Assignment as Pastor of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, in Ozark.

Reverend Andrew Williams

New Appointment: Sacramental Priest of Sacred Heart Parish, in Webb City; St. Ann Parish, in Carthage; faculty member and Lead Chaplain of McAuley Catholic High School, in Joplin, and as a diocesan Regional Vocation Promoter. Continuing: Role as Chaplain of Mercy Joplin. Concluding: Assignment as Parochial Vicar of St. Mary Parish, in Joplin, and St. Mary Parish, in Seneca.

New Assignments

Effective March 6, 2023

• Reverend Gianluca Roso, MCCJ, Parochial Vicar of S12 Family of Parishes which includes Holy Family, St. Boniface, St. Joseph, St. Leo the Great, and St. Therese Little Flower, Cincinnati.

Effective April 1, 2023

• Reverend Jedidiah Tritle, Parochial Vicar of NE3 Family of Parishes which includes Mary, Help of Christians, Fairborn, Sacred Heart, New Carlisle, St. Augustine, Jamestown, St. Brigid, Xenia, St. Luke, Beavercreek and St. Paul, Yellow Springs.

Effective April 27, 2023

• Reverend Edward P. Smith, Pastor of SE4 Family of Parishes which includes St. Columban, and St. Margaret of York, Loveland.

Effective May 1, 2023

• Reverend Christopher J. Worland, Parochial Vicar of SE7 Family of Parishes which includes St. Andrew, Milford, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Milford, and St. Veronica, Mt. Carmel.

Effective June 1, 2023

• Reverend Luke (John) VanBerkum, O.P., Parochial Vicar of S13 Family of Parishes which includes St. Gertrude, Madeira.

Effective July 1, 2023

• Reverend Joseph Vijay Kumar Chinnabathini, Parochial Vicar of NE 4 Family of Parishes which includes Incarnation, Centerville and St. Francis of Assisi, Centerville.
• Reverend Anthony Fortman, C.PP.S., Pastor of NE-6 Family of Parishes which includes Emmanuel, Dayton, Holy Trinity, Dayton, Precious Blood, Dayton, St. Joseph, Dayton, St. Paul, Englewood and St. Rita, Dayton.
• Reverend James Gaynor, C.PP.S., Parochial Vicar of NE-6 Family of Parishes which includes Emmanuel, Dayton, Holy Trinity, Dayton, Precious Blood, Dayton, St. Joseph, Dayton, St. Paul, Englewood and St. Rita, Dayton.

Effective Fall of 2023

• Reverend Anthony Marcelli assigned to graduate studies in Rome at the Pontificia Università della Santa Croce.

Retirement from Active Ministry

• Reverend Robert Keller, Parochial Vicar of SW4, effective July 1, 2023.
• Reverend Terence Hamilton, Parochial Vicar of SW7, effective July 1, 2023.
• Reverend Mark Burger, Parochial Vicar of SW6, effective July 1, 2023.
• Reverend Barry Windholtz, Parochial Vicar of S8, effective July 1, 2023.
• Reverend Jeffrey Kemper, Parochial Vicar of SE7, effective July 1, 2023.
• Reverend Lawrence Tensi, Parochial Vicar of SE4, effective July 1, 2023.
• Reverend Thomas Bolte, Parochial Vicar of C1, effective July 1, 2023.

Recent News & Announcements

Media Release Concerning Marshall Hyzdu

Deacon William Mullaney

Media release from the archdiocese of cincinnati & moeller high school.

100 East Eighth Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 USA (513) 421-3131

St. James the Apostle Parish

New Pastoral Assignments in the Diocese of Joliet

In consultation with the Vicar for Clergy and the Priest Personnel Board, Bishop Hicks has made the following pastoral assignments: Effective January 1, 2023: Fr. Raymond Flores, OSA , currently incardinating, as pastor at St. Jude Parish in New Lenox Fr. John Sponder, previously Parochial Vicar at Holy Spirit in Naperville, as Parochial Administrator at the same. Fr. Richard Smith, previously Pastor at Holy Spirit in Naperville, as Parochial Vicar at the same. Fr. Binu Varghese O. Praem. , currently incardinating, to be Pastor at St. Philip the Apostle in Addison. Fr. Robert Basler, O.S.A, previously Pastor at St. Jude in New Lennox, as Parochial Vicar at St. Walter in Roselle. Effective July 1, 2023: Fr. Brad Baker, currently Pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul in Naperville, to be Pastor of Holy Family in Shorewood .  Fr. Tuan Van Nguyen, currently Pastor of St. Mary in Minooka, to be Pastor of St Peter in Itasca.  Fr. Shaun Cieslik, currently Parochial Vicar at St. Mary Gostyn in Downers Grove, to be Pastor at the same .  Fr. Matt Nathan, currently completing further studies, to be pastor at St. Pius X in Lombard. Please pray for these priests and parishes in this time of transition. 

Share this:

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

• Find Parish
• Find School
• THE Valley Catholic
• Safe Environment

• Diocese News
• New Clergy Assignments effective July 1, 2024...

New Clergy Assignments effective July 1, 2024

Apr 22, 2024

To serve the people of God and following extensive consultation with the Clergy Personnel Board over the last few months, Bishop Oscar Cantú has made the following new clergy assignments effective July 1, 2024, unless otherwise indicated.

Office of Pastor

• Rev. Christopher Bransfield – from pastor of Saint Justin in Santa Clara to pastor of Church of the Transfiguration in San Jose
• Rev. Tito Jesus Cartagenas – from pastor of Church of the Transfiguration in San Jose to pastor of Saint Julie in San Jose
• Rev. Angelo David – from pastor of Saint Julie in San Jose to pastor of Saint Mary of Immaculate Conception in Los Gatos
• Rev. Generoso Geronimo – from parochial vicar of Saint Martin of Tours in San Jose to pastor of Saint Justin in Santa Clara
• Rev. Roberto Gomez – from pastor of Saint Martin in Sunnyvale to pastor of Our Lady of Refuge in San Jose
• Rev. Bartholomew Hutcherson, O.P. – from serving outside the diocese to pastor of Catholic Community at Stanford
• Rev. Robain Lamba – from parochial vicar of Saint Francis of Assisi to pastor of Saint Cyprian in Sunnyvale
• Rev. Gerardo Menchaca – from pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe in San Jose to pastor of Saint Catherine of Alexandria in Morgan Hill
• Rev. Prosper Molengi – from parochial vicar of Saint Lucy in Campbell to pastor of Saint Martin in Sunnyvale
• Rev. Vincent Pineda – from pastor of Saint Cyprian in Sunnyvale to pastor of Saint Francis of Assisi in San Jose
• Rev. Hugo Rojas – from pastor of Our Lady of Refuge in San Jose to pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe in San Jose
• Rev. Celso Singson – from parochial vicar of Queen of Apostles in San Jose to pastor of Saint Martin of Tours in San Jose
• Rev. Anthony Uytingco – from parochial vicar of Saint Lawrence the Martyr in Santa Clara to pastor of Queen of Apostles in San Jose

Office of Parochial Vicar

• Rev. Msgr. Francisco Rios – from parochial vicar at Saint Catherine of Alexandria in Morgan Hill to parochial vicar at Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph in San Jose
• Rev. Robert Brocato – from in-residence at Our Lady of Guadalupe in San Jose to in-residence at Saint Catherine of Alexandria in Morgan Hill
• Rev. Tony Famave – from parochial vicar at Holy Family in San Jose to parochial vicar at Saint Martin of Tours in San Jose
• Rev. Jeff Fernandez – from pastor at Queen of Apostles in San Jose to in-residence at Queen of Apostles in San Jose
• Rev. Andrey Garcia – from parochial vicar at Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph in San Jose to parochial vicar at Our Lady of Guadalupe in San Jose
• Rev. Thuc Si Ho – from parochial vicar at Saint Simon in Los Altos to parochial vicar at Saint Elizabeth in Milpitas
• Rev. John Hoang – from parochial vicar at Holy Spirit in San Jose to parochial vicar at Holy Family in San Jose
• Rev. Dat Luong – from parochial vicar at Our Lady of La Vang in San Jose to parochial vicar at Saint Simon in Los Altos
• Rev. Anthony Tan Nguyen – from parochial vicar at Christ the King in San Jose to parochial vicar at Our Lady of La Vang in San Jose
• Rev. Duong T. Nguyen – from parochial vicar at Saint Elizabeth in Milpitas to parochial vicar at Our Lady of Refuge in San Jose
• Rev. Eddie Obero – from parochial vicar at Saint Joseph in Mountain View to parochial vicar at Saint Francis of Assisi in San Jose
• Rev. Jon Pedigo – from sabbatical to parochial vicar at Saint Lucy in Campbell
• Rev. Peter Luc Phan – from parochial vicar at Saint Martin in Sunnyvale to parochial vicar at Christ the King in San Jose
• Rev. Noel Sanvicente – from special assignment as Judicial Vicar to parochial vicar at Saint Joseph in Mountain View
• Rev. Reynaldo Sarmiento – from pastor of Saint Francis of Assisi in San Jose to parochial vicar at Saint Francis Cabrini in San Jose

Special Assignments

• Rev. Jeff Fernandez has been appointed director, Office of Worship .
• Rev. Saju Joseph, JCL, has been appointed Judicial Vicar and director, Tribunal.
• Rev. Sergio Ovando will minister outside the Diocese of San José as Professor of Sacred Scripture at St. John’s Seminary of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
• Rev. Joseph Tran – departing as parochial vicar of Saint Francis Cabrini to study Canon Law at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila.
• Rev. Greg Kimm  
• Rev. Xavier Lavagetto, O.P.
• Rev. John Tran, OFM

• Always Forward Newsletter
• LA Catholics
• Events Calendar
• Saint of the Day
• Sunday Readings
• Archbishop José H. Gomez
• Father Ronald Rolheiser, OMI
• Bishop Robert Barron
• Heather King
• Charles Camosy
• Grazie Pozo Christie
• John L. Allen, Jr.
• Greg Erlandson
• Robert Brennan
• Russell Shaw
• Arts & Culture
• Photo & Video
• Our Mission
• Letters to the Editor
• Archdiocese of Los Angeles
• Angelus en Español

Louisiana State Police execute search warrant at New Orleans Archdiocese for records on abuse handling

Louisiana State Police executed a search warrant on the Archdiocese of New Orleans April 25 for documents related to a widening investigation into how the archdiocese has handled allegations of clerical sex abuse.

Louisiana State Police Trooper Jacob Pucheu, public information officer, told OSV News by email that the search took place "during a meeting with representatives and counsel for the Archdiocese of New Orleans" and the state police's special victims unit investigators.

"The Archdiocese is actively cooperating with investigators and the terms of the search warrant," said Pucheu in his statement. "This investigation remains ongoing, and there is no additional information available at this time."

The Archdiocese of New Orleans had been ordered by a New Orleans criminal court to turn over the records, as part of a long-running criminal investigation involving multiple accused priests.

According to The Guardian, New Orleans Magistrate Juana M. Lombard signed off on the order April 22, allowing Louisiana State Police to obtain from the archdiocese files identifying all priests and permanent deacons who had been accused of sexual abuse with minors.

In addition, the archdiocese was required to account for the dates of initial complaints, and to specify whether any cases had been handed over to the police, said The Guardian, citing "multiple sources with direct knowledge of the matter."

The newspaper also said that police have requested "copies of all communications" among New Orleans Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond and "his aides, as well as their superiors at the Vatican" regarding abuse.

A spokesperson with the archdiocese told OSV News in an email that "as always, the Archdiocese will continue to cooperate in all law enforcement investigations."

Pucheu told OSV News by email that the request marked an expansion of the investigation into retired New Orleans priest Msgr. Lawrence Hecker.

State troopers provided a sworn statement to Lombard April 22 stating they suspected the archdiocese knew about, but failed to properly report, widespread abuse. Lombard's order, a copy of which OSV News has requested, did not name any archdiocesan officials -- including Archbishop Aymond -- as being under criminal investigation, according to The Guardian.

The 92-year-old Msgr. Hecker was indicted by a grand jury in September 2023 for aggravated rape, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated crime against nature and theft. According to New Orleans Police Department reports, Msgr. Hecker raped and kidnapped a victim, who was not named, between Jan. 1, 1975, and Dec. 31, 1976.

A team of forensic psychiatrists recently said the 92-year-old priest is unfit to stand trial due to short-term memory loss, according to The Guardian, citing a report reviewed by its team and local television station WWL.

In response to an OSV News inquiry at the time of Hecker's arrest, the Archdiocese of New Orleans said in a statement that Msgr. Hecker "has not had priestly faculties since 2002," and that he was "included on the list of clergy removed from ministry for abuse of a minor in 2018."

The archdiocese also told OSV News at the time that it had "reported Lawrence Hecker to law enforcement authorities in different jurisdictions multiple times since 2002," and had "fully cooperated and will continue to cooperate with any law enforcement investigation" into the retired priest.

Pucheu told OSV News that in 2022 the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations Special Victims Unit had "initiated an investigation into the Archdiocese of New Orleans following numerous complaints of child sexual abuse.

"Since the inception of the investigation, investigators have executed a search warrant and arrested former Priest, Lawrence Hecker," said Pucheu. "As part of the ongoing investigation, on Monday, April 22, 2024, SVU investigators obtained an additional search warrant to collect information and documents from the Archdiocese of New Orleans."

Pucheu noted that the archdiocese "is cooperating with investigators to fulfill the terms of the search warrant," adding, "This investigation remains ongoing with no further information available at this time."

In a 1999 statement made to the archdiocese, Msgr. Hecker himself had acknowledged committing "overtly sexual acts" with at least three underage boys in the late 1960s and 1970s. He also confessed to having close relationships with four other boys into the 1980s.

In August 2023, The Guardian and WWL conducted a surprise interview with Msgr. Hecker at his apartment complex, with the disheveled-looking priest chalking his abuse up to the sexually permissive behavior of the time.

A few weeks later, during a brief Aug. 24, 2023, phone call with OSV News, Msgr. Hecker denied his admission of abuse.

"Things get twisted around," he said before hanging up.

However, in January, prosecutors said that Msgr. Hecker had admitted under oath that he views child pornography.

Article Tags

Abuse Crisis , Investigation , New Orleans

Gina Christian

Gina Christian is the National Reporter for OSV News.

RELATED ARTICLES

• Milwaukee archdiocese refuses 'sealed' records to state abuse investigation by Catholic News Agency June 4, 2021
• Archdiocese of New Orleans will close 10% of parishes by SueAnn Howell, O.C.D.S. November 2, 2023
• Polish experts reject claim JPII 'covered up abuse,' urge all church records be opened to give full… by Paulina Guzik March 8, 2023

Start your day with Always Forward!

• Enter your email address here
• By submitting this form, you agree to the terms of our Privacy Policy .

‘My name is John Doe:’ Former St. Charles Borromeo School student accuses priest of sexual abuse

S ARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Attorneys with Mallard Perez are challenging the accuracy of a statement provided by the Diocese of Venice, stating that another allegation was known prior to other recent reports.

Damian Mallard, a partner of the Mallard Perez law offices, urged other potential victims of Reverend Leo Riley to come forward. Father Riley is currently facing accusations out of the state of Iowa.

Detectives from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Major Case Unit worked with the Dubuque, Iowa Police Department to arrest Leo P. Riley at his Port Charlotte home on Wednesday.

Dubuque Police Department had developed probable cause for five counts of capital sexual battery within their jurisdiction.

Riley was a past priest at the Resurrection Church in Dubuque, Iowa. In Charlotte County, he was a Priest at Saint Charles Borromeo in Port Charlotte in the early 2000′s, and is currently assigned to San Antonio Catholic Church, also in Port Charlotte.

“John Doe” stepped forward at the press conference to give a brief statement.

“My name is John Doe. As a child, I attended St. Charles school in Port Charlotte where Father Leo Riley repeatedly abused me for years. I never told anybody back then. He said if I told, he would do to my sister what he was doing to me. I buried these memories too deep but I couldn’t keep them buried forever. When they started coming back in flashes and nightmares, I knew I needed to do something so that Riley would not hurt anyone else,” John Doe told reporters.

Attorneys say that the abuse had occurred when he was a Pre-K-8th grade student at St. Charles Borromeo.

Attorney Mallard explained that Father Riley was placed on administrative leave in 2023. He said that other documented instances of abuse were known by the Diocese and that “John Doe” filed a civil lawsuit in July of 2020. Riley was not removed during this time.

“What is very troubling to my client, is the statement released by the Diocese of Venice yesterday claiming that Leo Riley was ‘immediately’ placed on administrative leave upon learning of another allegation against Father Riley. This statement is at best misleading, if not inaccurate,” Mallard said.

Mallard is encouraging anyone else who may be a victim to come forward to seek resources. He also stated that his client wanted to speak with any survivors to let them know what happened was not their fault.

In the timeline provided, Mallard states that days after the Boston Globe Spotlight column that exposed sex abuse within the Catholic Church was published, Father Riley requested to be assigned to Parishes in Naples and Port Charlotte, Fla.

Here is the statement from The Diocese of Venice that was sent to ABC7 Wednesday:

“In May of last year, the Diocese of Venice learned from the Archdiocese of Dubuque, Iowa, that a new allegation of sexual misconduct had been made against Reverend Leo Riley. The incident in question involved someone who was a minor at the time, and occurred when Father Riley was a priest serving in the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

Although Father Riley strenuously denied the allegation, maintaining his innocence, in accordance with the Diocese of Venice’s Policy for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults, upon learning of the allegation Bishop Dewane immediately placed Father Riley on administrative leave, pending the investigation that was to be conducted by the Archdiocese of Dubuque. On May 17, 2023, Bishop Dewane also sent a letter to parishioners alerting them to the allegation. Father Riley’s most recent assignment in the Diocese of Venice was at San Antonio Parish in Port Charlotte.

The Diocese of Venice has just learned that Father Riley has now been arrested. We pray that the Lord of Truth and Light will guide us all in His ways moving forward. We pray, today and always, for the healing of all victims of abuse. May the light of truth and justice alleviate their pain and suffering, and may the Lord grant them healing, and peace.

The Diocese of Venice remains committed to doing all that can reasonably be done to protect children and vulnerable adults. Anyone who believes that he or she has been the victim of sexual misconduct by someone serving in ministry for the Diocese of Venice, or any organization, should contact law enforcement officials. The Diocese of Venice provides a Victim Assistance Coordinator, who can be reached at 941-416-6114.”

Riley’s first appearance was in Charlotte County Friday morning where he was granted a bond of $100,000.

Bergen church says goodbye to a 'priest's priest' as monsignor retires after 50 years

4-minute read.

Richard Arnhols seemed destined for religious life from early on. As a second grader, he created a makeshift altar on his bedroom bookcase in his West New York home. He fashioned vestments from an old bedsheet and practiced saying Mass.

He was inspired by "wonderful role models" at his Catholic schools, he recalled recently: There was Father Joseph Murray, who was dedicated to sharing Catholic teachings with his students, and Father Paul Nolan, whose zeal for the faith was as evident as his desire to spread it.

His mother was secretary at St. Joseph of the Palisades School and a daily Mass-goer who stressed compassion for others. His father, an electrical engineer for Con Edison, sang and played hymns on the home piano and "taught us to lead honest lives and strive for excellence."

The son would go on to fulfill those lessons for decades. Now Monsignor Arnhols, he has been a priest for a half-century and spiritual leader for at St. John the Evangelist Church in Bergenfield for the last 25.

A clerical career that includes honors from the Vatican in Rome will come to a close on July 1, when the 75-year-old will retire from his post. St, John's was scheduled to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his ordination on Saturday as well as his 25th anniversary as pastor of the church on Washington Avenue, with a special Mass of Thanksgiving as well as a gala dinner.

When he arrived at St. John's, Arnhols' parishioners were primarily Irish and German immigrants who lived in the working-class neighborhood near the church, which was constructed in 1905. Over the years, as the demographics evolved, the faces in the pews changed as well.

A church 'filled with life'

The 3,500 families who comprise the parish today include over 55 different nationalities who speak an array of languages.

"It's a good representation of the community as a whole and speaks volumes about the positive interaction of people with one another who share a common faith and love of their community," the priest said.

"We have a greater variety of groups practicing a multiplicity of shared prayer experiences and a spectrum of spiritualities from the more traditional to the more charismatic. It is a place filled with life."

Arnhols, who speaks Spanish fluently, has tried to adapt to his changing clientele while maintaining Catholic traditions: Some Masses are conducted with hymns in Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines. In the days before Christmas, a Misa del Gallo − a "rooster's Mass" − is held early in the morning to honor the tradition in some Spanish-speaking cultures that a rooster's crow at dawn symbolizes the daily triumph over darkness.

Big screen: A NJ pastor's coming-of-age tale about young priests makes its big-screen debut Thursday

"Since my ordination, I have experienced a variety of changes in worship and ritual, greater ecumenical interaction, and having to deal with more contemporary, challenging moral issues," he said. "Having to ask yourself `What would Jesus do?' isn't always as simple as it seems, as we try to meet people where they are and bring them closer to Him."

Arnhols said he's looking forward to spending time at the Jersey Shore after he retires and assisting parishes there for Sunday Mass. He also plans to return to his Bergenfield parish for special events as Pastor Emeritus.

He will miss the parishioners who came weekly to worship at St. John's, he said. But he is grateful to have spent years "celebrating the sacraments with people − baptizing both children and adults, giving them communion and confirmation, reconciling people with God, anointing the sick, joining couples in marriage."

His long career includes several recognitions from Pope John Paul II in Rome, including his designations as a monsignor and later as a Chaplain to His Holiness and Prelate of Honor. 

Honoring 'a priest's priest'

James Detura, a deacon at St. John the Evangelist, has known Arnhols since he arrived in the parish. He praised the monsignor as "a priest's priest."

"He lives his vocation through and through," Detura said. "He's an excellent listener. He's got a calming persona and a way about him. He has a presence where people can quickly become comfortable sharing with him and being able to express what's on their minds."

Along with such triumphs, there have been challenges, Arnhols said. Like many priests, he's been forced to merge and later close Catholic schools − in his case, St. Mary's in Dumont and Ascension in New Milford − as enrollment has declined.

And Arnhols has had to help parishioners keep the faith amid the ongoing clergy abuse scandal. "Not only do I have sympathy with those harmed but there's a sense of communal guilt projected by many of the faithful," he said. Still, he believes "the steps that have been taken by the church have significantly reduced these horrible crimes."

Bishop's broadcast: Paterson bishop opens up about Biden, baseball, abortion and more in new podcast

Arnhols graduated from St. Joseph's Boys High School and Seton Hall University and entered Immaculate Conception Seminary in Mahwah. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1973 at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Newark and after several assignments, arrived in Bergenfield.

Growing up in West New York, he considered many occupations focused on serving others, including police officer, firefighter and doctor.

"But priesthood always seemed to be the strongest calling," he said. "I felt my mission was to make the large institutional church understandable to the average person and helpful and useful in practical ways."

"I believe I've been able to do that for the majority of my priesthood."

Deena Yellin covers religion for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to her work covering how the spiritual intersects with our daily lives,  please subscribe or activate your digital account today .

Email:  [email protected] Twitter:  @deenayellin

OUR MINISTER

Dr. Joseph Lozovyy was born into a Christian family in Elektrostal, Moscow Region, and was raised in a pastor’s home. From the age of fifteen, he began actively participating in the music ministry of the Baptist Church in Mytishchi, where his father served as a pastor, and also played in the orchestra of the Central Moscow Baptist Church. From 1989, he participated in various evangelistic events in different cities of Moscow Region and beyond. From 1989 to 1992, as a member of the choir and orchestra “LOGOS,” he participated in evangelistic and charitable concerts, repeatedly performing on the stages of the Moscow State Conservatory, the Bolshoi Theatre, and other concert halls in Russia and abroad. In 1992, his family moved to the United States. In 2007, after completing a full course of spiritual and academic preparation, Joseph moved to Dallas, Texas, to engage in church ministry. In 2008, he founded the Russian Bible Church to preach to the Russian-speaking population living in Dallas, Texas.

– Bachelor of Arts in Music (viola) from the Third Moscow Music School named after Scriabin, Russia (1987-1991)

– Master of Theology (Th.M); Dallas Theological Seminary, Texas (1999-2003);

– Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) Hebrew Bible (Books of Samuel): University of Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (2007).

– Doctoral research (2004-2005) Tübingen, Germany.

– Author of a theological work published in English: Saul, Doeg, Nabal and the “Son of Jesse: Readings in 1 Samuel 16-25, LHBOTS 497 [T&T Clark/Continuum: Bloomsbury Publishing]).

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/saul-doeg-nabal-and-the-son-of-jesse-9780567027535/

Joseph and his wife Violetta and their son Nathanael live in the northern part of Dallas.

Saul, Doeg, Nabal, and the “Son of Jesse”: Readings in 1 Samuel 16-25: The Library of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies Joseph Lozovyy T&T Clark (bloomsbury.com)

Joseph, his wife Violetta and their son Nathaniel live in North Dallas, Texas where he continues ministering to Russian-speaking Christians and his independent accademic research.

Moscow Mufti, “Rash Decisions on the Status of Jerusalem Offend the Feelings of Almost Two Billion Muslims around the World”

May 11, Interfax – Head of the Spiritual Assembly of Russian Muslims, Moscow Mufti Albir Krganov, believes that…

Head of Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Arrives in Moscow

On 15 May 2018, Patriarch and Catholicos Abune Mathias I of Ethiopia arrived in Russia with an official…

On Other People’s Suffering

A believer does in fact perceive death differently from an atheist. Where an atheist sees a complete and…

“Le monde entier reste silencieux au…

Depuis le 12 décembre 2022, la région de l'Artsakh, où vivent 120…

“The whole world is silent about…

Since December 12, 2022 the region of Artsakh, where 120,000 Armenians live,…

The Importance of Patiently Letting Down…

If there is any virtue that seems completely foreign to our culture…

Developed by Hamburg Church Studio

Design by —

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

12 Facts About Beer Pong Day May 4th

15 Facts About National Gummi Bear Day April 27th

40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

For the first time Rosatom Fuel Division supplied fresh nuclear fuel to the world’s only floating nuclear cogeneration plant in the Arctic

The fuel was supplied to the northernmost town of Russia along the Northern Sea Route.

The first in the history of the power plant refueling, that is, the replacement of spent nuclear fuel with fresh one, is planned to begin before 2024. The manufacturer of nuclear fuel for all Russian nuclear icebreakers, as well as the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, is Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC), a company of Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL that is based in Elektrostal, Moscow Region.

The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactors of the icebreaking type. Unlike convenient ground-based large reactors (that require partial replacement of fuel rods once every 12-18 months), in the case of these reactors, the refueling takes place once every few years and includes unloading of the entire reactor core and loading of fresh fuel into the reactor.

The cores of KLT-40 reactors of the Akademik Lomonosov floating power unit have a number of advantages compared to the reference ones: a cassette core was used for the first time in the history of the unit, which made it possible to increase the fuel energy resource to 3-3.5 years between refuelings, and also reduce the fuel component of the electricity cost by one and a half times. The FNPP operating experience formed the basis for the designs of reactors for nuclear icebreakers of the newest series 22220. Three such icebreakers have been launched by now.

For the first time the power units of the Akademik Lomonosov floating nuclear power plant were connected to the grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020. The supply of nuclear fuel from Elektrostal to Pevek and its loading into the second reactor is planned for 2024. The total power of the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, supplied to the coastal grid of Pevek without thermal energy consumption on shore, is about 76 MW, being about 44 MW in the maximum thermal power supply mode. The FNPP generated 194 million kWh according to the results of 2023. The population of Pevek is just a little more than 4 thousand, while the FNPP has a potential for supplying electricity to a city with a population of up to 100 thousand people. After the FNPP commissioning two goals were achieved. These include first of all the replacement of the retiring capacities of the Bilibino NPP, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya TPP, which has already been operating for more than 70 years. Secondly, energy is supplied to the main mining companies in western Chukotka in the Chaun-Bilibino energy hub a large ore and metal cluster, including gold mining companies and projects related to the development of the Baimsk ore zone. In September 2023, a 110 kilovolt power transmission line with a length of 490 kilometers was put into operation, connecting the towns of Pevek and Bilibino. The line increased the reliability of energy supply from the FNPP to both Bilibino consumers and mining companies, the largest of which is the Baimsky GOK. The comprehensive development of the Russian Arctic is a national strategic priority. To increase the NSR traffic is of paramount importance for accomplishment of the tasks set in the field of cargo shipping. This logistics corridor is being developed due regular freight voyages, construction of new nuclear-powered icebreakers and modernization of the relevant infrastructure. Rosatom companies are actively involved in this work. Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL (Rosatom Fuel Division) includes companies fabricating nuclear fuel, converting and enriching uranium, manufacturing gas centrifuges, conducting researches and producing designs. As the only nuclear fuel supplier to Russian NPPs, TVEL supplies fuel for a total of 75 power reactors in 15 countries, for research reactors in nine countries, as well as for propulsion reactors of the Russian nuclear fleet. Every sixth power reactor in the world runs on TVEL fuel. Rosatom Fuel Division is the world’s largest producer of enriched uranium and the leader on the global stable isotope market. The Fuel Division is actively developing new businesses in chemistry, metallurgy, energy storage technologies, 3D printing, digital products, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities. TVEL also includes Rosatom integrators for additive technologies and electricity storage systems. Rosenergoatom, Joint-Stock Company is part of Rosatom Electric Power Division and one of the largest companies in the industry acting as an operator of nuclear power plants. It includes, as its branches, 11 operating NPPs, including the FNPP, the Scientific and Technical Center for Emergency Operations at NPPs, Design and Engineering as well as Technological companies. In total, 37 power units with a total installed capacity of over 29.5 GW are in operation at 11 nuclear power plants in Russia. Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC, Elektrostal) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of fuel for nuclear power plants. The company produces fuel assemblies for VVER-440, VVER-1000, RBMK-1000, BN-600,800, VK-50, EGP-6; powders and fuel pellets intended for supply to foreign customers. It also produces nuclear fuel for research reactors. The plant belongs to the TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom.

Rosatom obtained a license for the first land-based SMR in Russia

On April 21, Rosenergoatom obtained a license issued by Rostekhnadzor to construct the Yakutsk land-based SMR in the Ust-Yansky District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

ROSATOM and FEDC agree to cooperate in the construction of Russia's first onshore SNPP

ROSATOM and FEDC have signed a cooperation agreement to build Russia's first onshore SNPP in Yakutia.

Rosatom develops nuclear fuel for modernized floating power units

Rosatom has completed the development of nuclear fuel for the RITM-200S small modular reactor designed for the upgraded floating power units.