My dear brothers and sisters in the Lord,

During the feast of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests, we are called to honor and remember those who have helped shape our lives as Catholics.

St. John Vianney, also known as the “Cure d’ Ars,” was a humble parish priest and a mediator of Christ to His people. During his life, Father John Vianney transformed the hearts and lives of so many people because he enabled them to experience the Lord’s merciful love. He helped bring many to the love and care of Jesus, and eventually became so beloved by people across France that large crowds would come hear him preach every day. Pope Pius XI officially canonized him in 1925.

It is with a grateful hearts that we reflect upon the many contributions of our priests in Brooklyn and Queens. Our diocese has been blessed with the service and leadership of so many remarkable priests. With love and deep commitment, they have guided us to fulfill the Church’s mission. Throughout our lives, in times of joy, and our educational efforts, our priests have been present and have walked alongside us during these times. They are pillars of our Catholic communities in Brooklyn and Queens, and have dedicated their lives for us.

During their senior years, our priests continue to minister to their flock, assisting in parishes. They provide invaluable spiritual guidance, imparting the wisdom of their generation and providing us with an example of their great faith.

We receive so much from the generosity of our priests, but they also need our help. It is our responsibility that they receive proper care and compassion from us for all that they have given to us. At a certain point in life, even the most tireless of servants needs an opportunity to rest from his labor. The diocese fulfills its promise to our senior priests through the St. John Vianney Fund and the Good Shepherd Fund. These two charitable trusts offer financial assistance for the medical and housing expenses of our sick and elderly priests, providing a dignified retirement during their senior years.

Grateful for God’s many gifts in our lives, we have an obligation as good stewards to provide for the welfare of these faithful men. With this in mind, and after much prayer and consultation, Generations of Faith, our diocesan Capital Campaign, will allocate at least $30 million to the St. John Vianney and Good Shepherd Fund. These funds will help us meet the anticipated needs of our senior priests, while ensuring that our current and future priests receive adequate care in their senior years.

The faithful of our Diocese have long been noted for their support of our priests. The amazing response already to Generations of Faith from our parish communities demonstrates that those who have labored tirelessly and spent their lives in sacrifice for us and the Church are greatly admired by Catholics in Brooklyn and Queens.

As we put out into the deep and celebrate the Feast of St. John Vianney on Aug. 4, join me in prayer for all the priests, living and deceased, who have served the faithful of Brooklyn and Queens. And, if you see your parish priest in the next few days, be sure to wish him a happy feast day, and thank him for his commitment and service to the Lord.

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