Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time—July 14, 2019

Dear Friends in Christ:

On Saturday, June 22, 2019, Father Federico was ordained a priest by Archbishop Blair. Having been friends with Father Federico through his years of formation I was honored to be an invited guest at his reception that evening. It was quite a celebration of exuberant joy! His family even arranged for the Jersey Boys singers to be there and perform. BUT THAT WAS NOT THE HIGHLIGHT FOR ME!

The speech Father Federico’s dad gave was the highlight for me and a talking point for days after among those priests that were there. It was honest and moving. With Mr. Federico’s permission I share it with you.

His dad’s speech: “Hello everyone and good evening. It is an honor and a blessing to be a part of this extraordinary event. For those of you who don’t know, I am Anthony Joseph Federico, the Anthony Joseph Federico who was NOT ordained a priest today. People say that the apple does not fall from the tree; I stand here as living proof that sometimes it does. I thank God that my wife Debra was and is, a branch on that tree.

I would like to thank you all for being here today. Many have travelled from far to be with us. A special thanks to those who have guided Anthony spiritually and emotionally every step of this journey. There have been so many good friends and mentors, especially among all the priests gathered here, but I want to acknowledge a few in particular. Although he is a Red Sox fan in Yankee land, Father Shawn Daly has been an incredible me