NEW ASSIGNMENTS FOR PRIESTS AT ST. COLUMBA

FATHER TONY MENSAU

Father Tony was assigned to St. Columba last October after the departure of Father Viktor for Rome and further studies. Father Tony faithfully served our parish through his sacramental ministry. Father Tony’s time with us is coming to an end. We will celebrate him at our Staff BBQ on Wednesday, June 18. His final day with us will be Sunday, June 29. He will offer the 12:00 noon Mass to be followed by a reception in the school cafeteria. After a July spiritual retreat and summer vacation, he will receive a new assignment from his Bishop in Ghana. May God bless Father Tony and his priestly ministry.

FATHER VIKTOR GJERGJI

Father Viktor Gjergji has completed his graduate studies at the Pontifical University of Santa Croce in Rome. With joy we announce that Cardinal Dolan has assigned him to St. Columba Church effective July 1. We are honored by this assignment and are delighted that Father Viktor is returning “home” to us. Please pray for him as he begins his priestly ministry in the Archdiocese of New York as our Parochial Vicar.

FATHER RUSSEL FERNANDES

Father Russel, like both Father John and Father Stephen, our previous summer priests, is a member of the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier, commonly known as the Pilar Fathers. Father Russel spent the summer of 2019 with us during a period of time when he was studying Moral Theology in Rome at the Alphonsianum. His Superior has asked Father Russel to return to Rome for more advanced studies. And now, he will return to St. Columba for the summer of 2025! Father Russel will arrive on Monday, June 30. Please give him a warm welcome back to St. Columba.