Transitions and moving on

      This is the time of the year for the celebration of transitions.  The end of May, early June sees a series of graduations with the inevitable farewells and the anticipation of new things ahead.  In my years of priesthood and in the many years of my life these moments were usually accompanied by great joy and celebration.  In my brief years of retirement so far, these moments are cherished as I see them touching the lives of those important to me.  In almost every case I rejoice with those who acknowledge their accomplishments and transitions, and in the circumstances that were more painful I share my prayers and support.

     Graduations in our area include those who have received degrees from Saint Vincent College and Seton Hill University in our Diocese, our two Diocesan High Schools - Geibel and Greensburg Central Catholic, our parishioners who graduate from our public High Schools, as well as those transitioning from our local parochial schools.  We wish all of our graduates well and assure them of our prayers and our pride.

The High School Graduates of 2019 from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish,

my last assignment

     One of our young priests, Father Daniel Ulishney, this past Saturday received his License in Canon Law (JCL) from the Catholic University of America in Washington.  Father Dan is serving as Parochial Vicar at the Connellsville/Dunbar area.  Receiving a degree in Canon Law while continuing in full time ministry is a challenge deserving of respect and congratulations.   I've included a few pictures of his event that I borrowed from his fb page.

 Father Dan Ulishney

 Commencement Program

Father Dan with his Mom and Dad

     Very recently there was another graduation accomplishment celebrated for a group that completed an intensive Diocesan Formation Program entitled Pathways.  There were four in this year's group that I had the honor of serving as pastor at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish.  I wish them well as they use their learning to help educate our children in the Faith.

 Back row from left: Gail Henderson, Judy Gazda, Julie Henry and Rose Martin

from Sait Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish

The 2019 Pathways "graduates" with

Bishop Edward Malesic

     These are but a few of the moments of transition that are taking place with the life of God's People, but these have touched my life and been a source of blessing.