As many of you already know, Fr. Pistone has been in declining health for many years now. Through conversation with his caretakers, his family, the Diocese and his friends, the decision was made for him to move to a retirement home in New Jersey where he will be closer to his family and can receive the specialized care and support he needs. Father moved to New Jersey on December 12, 2024, on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

How and when to inform and involve the community of St. Mary’s was a difficult decision. While it is tradition to host a farewell Mass and parish gathering, in consideration of Father Pistone’s health challenges, it was determined that such a gathering would be too difficult for his physical and mental well-being. Similarly, receiving lots of letters and calls leading up to his departure would also have been very challenging for Father for the same reason. I completely understand how hard it is for the community to hear about his departure after he has already left, but please understand that prioritizing his health and well-being was necessary to ensure that his last few weeks at St. Mary’s were as peaceful as they could be.

Father Pistone has long been an integral part of our parish community, touching countless lives with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. He was the 37th pastor of St. Mary’s from 1987-2002, and came back in 2019 as a retired priest. His dedication to our spiritual growth and his ability to bring joy has made him a cherished friend to many. Each of us carries our own unique memories of Father Pistone—moments of solace during tough times, encouragement during our journeys, and the warmth of his presence in our lives. I have been edified by his priestly example on many occasions. Often, when I would search for him in the rectory, he would be on his couch praying his breviary, with his many holy cards spread out around him. At night he would tell me he is going to “Say goodnight to the boss,” and pray in the main church before the Blessed Sacrament before retiring for the night. It is that kind of unwavering faith that we find so inspiring.

To honor Father Pistone and to express our love and gratitude, we have created an online form on our parish website where you can share your messages, memories, and prayers for him. We will be printing them out for him and sending them to him. For the time being, if you have letters you’d rather send by mail instead of using the website, please deliver them to the office and we will send them to New Jersey. I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on the impact Father Pistone has had on your life and to convey your thoughts through this platform. We will be sharing your messages with Father, and your words will be a source of comfort and encouragement as he navigates this transition.

-Fr. Olkowski 

Please share your well wishes and joyful thanks to our beloved Father Pistone.  All messages will be shared with Father and his family.