Since I was on the theme of nurturing, I wanted to share that last Sunday I journeyed to Erie, Pennsylvania, to share with a seminary classmate his 40th Anniversary celebration. His name is Father Alexander David Amico, and he is the pastor of Saint Paul Parish in the city of Erie. Alex was ordained to the priesthood on May 18, 1973, by Bishop Alfred Watson of Erie.
I mention Alex within the context of nurturing because, throughout his many assignments he has touched people's lives and influenced many. But one wonderful gift that he has given to the Church is the inspiration and encouragement to three young men from his little parish of Saint Basil in Coalport, PA, who went on to be ordained as priests. Alex was stationed as pastor in Coalport for twenty two years, and during that time these three entered the seminary, completed their studies, were ordained and presently serve the Diocese of Erie. The first of the three, Father Justin Pino, preached the anniversary mass. He is pastor in Oil City, PA. The other two are Fathers Jonathan Schmolt, pastor of Saint Brigid in Meadville and Jason Feigh, Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of Peace in Erie. They also attended the celebration.
Father Alex Amico inspired these men, encouraged them in their desire, and nurtured their vocations. Along with their families and the parish family of Saint Basil the Great, the Church is richer and blessed. There are not many priests that can boast of inspiring three vocations, but Alex is one of them.
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