Fr. Dominic Papa CP was joined by seven Passionist priests, and the resident priests at Queen of Peace to celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving honoring his sixty years of profession. The chapel was filled to capacity and many friends, Association members, Residents and Resident families. The main celebrant was Fr. Provincial Robert Joerger, CP. Fr. Kenan Peters, CP, a class mate of Father Papa, gave the homily. After offering a biographical sketch of Fr. Papa’s life, he encouraged all of us to offer our sacrifices with the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross, following the example of Fr. Papa. He quoted Pope Francis saying, “What counts is to be permeated by the love of Christ, to let oneself be led by the Holy Spirit and to graft one’s own life onto the tree of life, which is the Lord’s cross.”
In the afternoon, Fr. Papa was invited to the auditorium where he was joined by Sisters and Residents for a program called Italy comes to America of Italian and American songs reminiscent of the years he spent in Rome. Singer, Giovanni Antidormi entertained the audience with songs and even some dancing. Everyone enjoyed the Italian bakery treats that were served following the performance.
Ad multos annos, Fr. Dominic!
Fr. Dominic Papa, CP celebrates 60 years as a Passionist