The Diocese of Brooklyn is blessed to have a living legacy in its retired clergy, particularly those residing at the Bishop Mugavero Residence for Senior Priests in Douglaston.
These priests, though in the later stages of life, continue to enrich the diocese with their wisdom, dedication, and diverse ministries. Their continued service, as exemplified by priests like Father Robert Lauder, Father Robert Czok, Msgr. Robert Sarno, Msgr. Edward Doran, and Father Michael Perry underscore the profound benefits of supporting and engaging retired clergy within our community.
Retired priests bring a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge that strengthens the diocese. Father Robert Lauder, for instance, continues to shape minds as a philosophy professor at St. John’s University and a columnist for The Tablet. His intellectual contributions keep the diocese connected to its theological and philosophical roots, fostering a deeper understanding of faith among students and readers.
Similarly, Msgr. Robert Sarno’s ongoing consultation with the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints ensures that the diocese remains linked to the universal Church’s mission, contributing expertise to the canonization process. These priests offer continuity, grounding the diocese in its history while guiding its future.
Beyond their intellectual and administrative contributions, retired clergy provide invaluable pastoral care.
Father Robert Czok’s Saturday mornings spent praying and counseling outside of abortion clinics in Queens demonstrate a steadfast commitment to compassion and the sanctity of life. His presence offers hope and support to women in crisis, embodying the Church’s call to mercy.
Likewise, Msgr. Edward Doran and Father Michael Perry continue to celebrate Masses at American Martyrs Parish in Bayside and for the Sisters of Mercy in Whitestone, respectively. Their liturgical service ensures that parishes and religious communities have a spiritual connection, particularly in times when active priests are stretched thin.
The presence of retired clergy also fosters a culture of reverence for lifelong vocation. The garden dedicated to St. John Vianney in St. John’s Cemetery, surrounded by the graves of 150 priests, is a testament to the enduring priesthood described in Psalm 110:4: “You are a priest forever.”
The 26 priests at the Mugavero Residence, some facing cognitive or mobility challenges, reflect this eternal commitment. Even those who have slowed down, as some priests shared, offer a quiet witness through prayer and reflection, inspiring younger clergy and laity alike to see the priesthood as a lifelong calling rather than a career with an expiration date.
Supporting retired clergy through facilities like the Mugavero Residence, with its assisted-living services, is not merely an act of charity, but an investment in the diocese’s spiritual vitality.
These priests, whether teaching, counseling, celebrating Mass, or simply praying, continue to serve the diocese. Their presence reminds us that retirement for clergy is not an end but a new phase of ministry, one that enriches the diocese with wisdom, service, and holiness.
As we honor their contributions, we are called to ensure that their needs are met, allowing them to continue sharing their gifts for as long as they are able.
The Diocese of Brooklyn is stronger for it, and we are all the beneficiaries of their enduring priesthood.