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Becoming Canon Law Society of America National Convention Chair,
as announced by Father Boccaccio to St. Philip Parishioners
during the Masses of May 27/28, 2006
Because I want all parishioners to hear the exact same thing again, this report will be read ... so, here goes!
Last week we reviewed our structures falling ... about which there is nothing new to report as yet...
except one major reminder .... the doors by the Reconciliation Chapel do not have stairs ... so are very handy for
carriages, walkers, etc. A sign has been placed on the door. Again, my thanks for your understanding and
adjusting so nicely. Please notice the answers to the questions asked during last weekend’s masses ... page 1 of
bulletin.
Last week I talked about structures falling .... this week, I am delighted to tell you about structures
strengthened, beginning by saying, “I’m not leaving the parish!!”. Again, some background:
As many of you may know, I have been involved with our Diocesan Tribunal work in the ministry of
Canon Law for quite a while. I started in 1978 and was “admitted” to the bar, as it were, as a Judge in 1984.
My involvement has mainly been with marriage cases. However, I have been rather connected to other areas of
Canon Law, particularly in a very active role with both annual Regional and National conventions, held in May
and October. In 2002 I began a role as Secretary of the Eastern Region [consisting of 18 East Coast states and
DC]. That office includes being the Chair of the Convention Co-ordinating Committee...that 5 year term ends
next year.
I am pleased and honored to tell you that I have been asked to assume the role of National Convention
Chair for the Canon Law Society of America. Last fall, I consulted with both the parish staff and the parish
council, who encouraged me to “go for it.” With that backing, I then met with Bishop Lori who concurred and
beautifully wrote in his letter to me, “This is indeed an honor for the Diocese.”
My responsibilities will basically be to make sure that the National Convention runs smoothly .... or as I
like to say, make sure the coffee is plugged in, the ‘mikes’ are working, the stapler is full and the bishops and
international delegates are content .... in that order!!! Some of our parish staff applauded when I told them that
this new role could mean being away from the parish for up to another 2 weeks!! My being away will not, as
has been the case these past four years of being the only full time priest here, disrupt our Parish’s Life. I shall
not endanger any of our Ministries; not only will our parish life continue but together we shall improve and
expand our mission. I am blessed not only by your involvement, but also with a very competent, talented and
dedicated staff. My new position will not affect my remaining here as your pastor, an honor beyond all honors.
Officially, I begin my 5 year national office next year, when my regional one has ended. I’ll be in training
this year, hence making an extra trip to the site of this year’s national convention, which will be in Ft. Worth,
TX! There is no salary, honorarium or stipend attached to the office. While most of my travel expenses will be
paid for, I’ll still be responsible to pay membership dues, convention registration, hotel room, etc. I was going to
wait a few more weeks before sharing this news with you – especially in view of my reading a “tower bell” report
last weekend. However, early this week, the Diocesan journal, the Fairfield County Catholic, informed me that
it will be carrying an article in the June 17th issue – hence I wanted you to know from me first!
Indeed, I am very touched by this opening to further serve the Church. I am particularly flattered in so far
as, if my memory serves me well, I am the first non-full time Tribunal or Chancery person to be appointed to this
position with Canon Law Society of America. In other words, while some of our parish cement has holes, our
parish community is highlighted for its wholeness and holiness, for which I thank you.
[FYI: there were no questions asked during any of the Masses; there was applause at each – again, I thank
you.]
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