At St. John’s, Stamford: Solemn Vespers in the Extraordinary Form

THE BASILICA OF

SAINT JOHN THE EVANGELIST

A MESSAGE FROM THE NEW PASTOR:

Dear Friends in Christ,

I am very grateful to Bishop Caggiano for appointing me the pastor of the Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist. Following in the footsteps of Monsignor DiGiovanni will be no easy task. During his 23 years as pastor Monsignor has transformed Saint John in the vibrant parish we see today. Due to his tireless efforts the Basilica has become a place where we find the beauty of the Catholic Faith expressed not only in its architecture, but also in fidelity to the truth, reverence in worship and service to the local community. It is my sincere hope to continue that great tradition and help spread the message of the Gospel in downtown Stamford.

I am also very happy to return to Stamford! I spent nine happy years as pastor of Saint Gabriel Church on Newfield Avenue before my transfer to Greenwich.

During this past year COVID restrictions have made parish life very challenging for us. In our efforts to keep ourselves and those around us safe we have made many adjustments to how we do things. While we are all tired of these adjustments we need to continue being diligent a little while longer and pray that our lives return to normal soon. I hope no one will be insulted if I am unable to shake hands and meet as many people as I would like to in the coming weeks. I consider it a serious obligation to set a good example and do my part to keep others safe.

I hope that you will join me for two special celebrations during the month of February. On Tuesday, February 2nd at 7:30 PM we will celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord with the Blessing of Candles and Procession. We will also pray Solemn Vespers in the Extraordinary Form for the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter on Monday, February 22nd at 6:00 PM. This is one of the feasts a plenary indugence may be gained at the Basilica under the usual conditions.

Please keep me in your prayers as I begin my ministry here at the Basilica and know that you are in mine!

Sincerely in Christ,

Father La Pastina

279 ATLANTIC STREET | STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT 06901-3506 | (203) 324-1553

OFFICE@STJOHNBASILICA.ORG | WWW.STJOHNBASILICA.ORG

N.B. The Mass on February 2nd at 7:30 PM is NOT in the Extraordinary Form (SC)