Catholic Diocese Tucson

CATHOLIC OUTLOOK 13 JUNE/JULY 2019 CHANDLER — Father Domenico Pinti, pastor of St. George Parish in Apache Junction, left Priests Convocation in May with a bit more color than when he arrived. Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger announced on opening day April 30 that Pope Francis had named Father Pinti a “Chaplain to His Holiness” with the title of “reverend monsignor.” With the honor comes colorful upgrades in cassocks, which includes magenta piping and buttons, and fascia – a sash – of the same color. In a May 5 letter to members of the parish, Bishop Weisenburger noted that Pope Francis, following the lead of Pope Benedict XVI, has been stingy on papal honors. “Papal honors for clergy, including the naming of monsignors, has grown far less frequent in the Church in an effort to maintain a sense of humility among the clergy,” the bishop wrote. “Nevertheless, when an exceptional priest stands out for his rich love for the Church and exceptionally generous ministry, the Holy See deems it prudent and worthwhile to shine a light on such a man. It is in this spirit that Msgr. Pinti has been recognized.” Msgr. Pinti said he was surprised and humbled by the announcement. “I never expected anything like this. All I ever want to do is just be a good and holy priest,” he said. The formal investiture will be July 15. The bishop called on parishioners to celebrate the news. “It is my great hope that you will extend a gracious congratulations to him for this honor and I look forward to a time that we can celebrate together this blessing for your dear pastor.” Pope recognizes St. George’s pastor as ‘monsignor’ Priests gather for learning, celebration during annual Convocation Marking a combined 140 years of priestly ministry, jubilarians were honored at a Mass during the Priests’ Convocation in Chandler May 1. At left, from left are Father Isaac Fynn (40 years), Father Joseph Esson (25 years), Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger, Father John Ikponko (25 years), Father Ariel Lustan (25 years) and Father Cayetano Cabrera (25 years). At a dinner following the Mass, Bishop Weisenburger was also cited for his seventh anniversary of episcopal ordination. Below, Father Ikponko and diocesan Chancellor Anne Morales share a light moment. Below left, priests prayed silently during Mass. Catholic Outlook photo by Steff Koeneman Catholic Outlook photo by Steff Koeneman Catholic Outlook photo by Michael Brown