September 4, 2007

Episcopal vicar named for campus ministry

One of the five clergy appointments announced by Bishop Edward U. Kmiec includes a new religious order priest who recently began working in the Diocese of Buffalo.

Father Daniel P. Callahan, SA, a Franciscan Friar of the Atonement, has been appointed pastor of SS. Brendan and Jude Parish in Almond; St. Jude Chapel, Alfred; and Blessed Sacrament Parish, Andover, all for a term of two years. Father Callahan replaces Father Eugene P. Ulrich in Almond and Alfred and Msgr. Vincent J. Becker in Andover. As part of the Journey in Faith and Grace, SS. Brendan and Jude has linked with Blessed Sacrament.

Father Patrick J. Zengierski, director of campus ministry Buffalo State College, has been given the additional responsibility as episcopal vicar of campus ministry for the Diocese of Buffalo for a term of three years. Father Ulrich formerly held that position. A native of North Tonawanda, Father Zengierski was ordained in 1991 by Bishop Bernard J. McLaughlin and has also served at SS. Peter and Paul, Williamsville; St. Agnes, Buffalo; St. John the Baptist, Kenmore; and the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Erie, Pa., native Father James W. Hartwell has been named parochial vicar of Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Orchard Park, for a term of three years. Father Hartwell was ordained in 2002 and had previously served at Infant of Prague Parish, Cheektowaga.

Two permanent deacons also have taken on new duties. As ministers of the Word, deacons proclaim the Gospel, preach, and teach in the name of the Church. As ministers of sacraments, deacons baptize, lead the faithful in prayer, witness marriages, and conduct wake and funeral services. As ministers of charity, deacons are leaders in identifying the needs of others, then marshalling the Church’s resources to meet those needs. Many permanent deacons are married men.

Deacon Michael A. Gomola was assigned to diaconal ministry at St. Patrick Parish, Fillmore, and St. Patrick Parish, Belfast, with ministry at Houghton College for a term of three years. Deacon Richard F. Mackiewicz was named spiritual director of the Buffalo Cursillo Movement for a three-year term.

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