Resource Guide - Amazon S3 · PPC is the primary advisory and consultative body to the Pastor. The...
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Resource Guide Saint Ann Catholic Church Williamsport, PA
Transcript of Resource Guide - Amazon S3 · PPC is the primary advisory and consultative body to the Pastor. The...
Resource Guide
Saint Ann Catholic Church W i l l i a m s p o r t , P A
Saint Ann Catholic Church 1220 Northway Road Williamsport, PA 17701
PHONE: 570.322.5935 | FAX: 570.322.2451
EMAIL: [email protected]
www.stannrcc.org
MASS TIMES:
Saturday (Vigil) 4:30pm
Sunday 7:30, 9:45, 11:30am
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 7:30am
Wednesday 12:10pm
CONFESSIONS:
Thursday 6:00-7:00pm or by appointment
ADORATION:
In the Church – Thursday 6:00-7:00pm (during confessions)
In the Mary, Mother of Mercy Adoration Chapel – Open Daily
OFFICE HOURS:
Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
(Closed for lunch 12:00-1:00pm)
From the Desk of the Pastor Dear friends in Christ,
Thank you for your interest in learning more about Saint Ann Catholic Church. Whether you are just visiting us for a
brief time, looking for a new parish home, are returning to the practice of your Catholic faith, are interested in learning
more about the Catholic Church, or simply want to become more involved in our family of faith, we are happy to have
you at Saint Ann. I invite you to “come and see” (John 1:39) what’s happening in our parish.
We are a growing and vibrant community with over 50 ministries and committees listed on our website (stannrcc.org),
in our Time & Talent brochure, and right here in this resource guide. We have activities and programs for all ages, from
children to young adults to those a little more advanced in years. Each person, regardless of age, is a gift to God’s family.
Everyone walking through the doors of our church has a story -- a sacred journey to be nurtured and respected. God calls
each one of us “by name” (Isaiah 43) to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him. He invites each of us to walk with
Him and to help build up the Body of Christ. The only thing we are asked to do is to say YES to doing His will!
Please join us and experience the warmth and excitement of our active and growing parish where God’s Word is
proclaimed, the Sacraments are celebrated, and where a community of believers gathers so that the “fruit of His Word
produces 30, 60, or 100-fold” (Mark 4:20). Please take a moment to pray, asking God where your place may be within
our family of faith.
We are a community of believers and a spiritual family that is supportive, caring, and loving. The parish is a place to
grow spiritually, to put your faith into action, and to use your gifts of time and talent as disciples of Jesus Christ. We look
forward to answering any questions you may have.
I welcome you to our Saint Ann family. May God bless you and all those you love,
Reverend John J. Victoria
Pastor
Mission:
Saint Ann Roman Catholic Church is a welcoming community that encourages and empowers our family of believers
to use their unique talents to become active disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Vision:
Casting a net to gather as many people as possible for the Kingdom of God.
Parish Staff
Pastor, Rev. John J. Victoria | [email protected]
Office Manager, Ms. Mary Jo Raniero | [email protected]
Part-Time Receptionist, Mrs. Lucy Huss
Facilities Manager, Ms. Lori Campbell | [email protected]
Maintenance Technician, Mr. Rick Williams | [email protected]
Director of Faith Formation, Mrs. Tiffany Haller | [email protected]
Assistant Director of Faith Formation, Director of Music, and Communications &
Technology Coordinator,
Mrs. Becky Goonan | [email protected], [email protected],
All Parish Staff can be reached by phone at the Parish Office 570.322.5935
Parish Leadership
Parish Pastoral Council (PPC)
The Parish Pastoral Council is a vehicle for fulfilling the pastoral mission of the Parish through Servant Leadership. It does this by
fostering growth within the Parish family and the sharing of spiritual gifts and talents by encouraging positive relationships among
all Parishioners and ministries. The PPC collaborates with other Parishes and the wider community. The PPC formulates Parish
policy, fosters good communication, and provides Servant Leadership by clarifying Parish Vision, establishing objectives to achieve
the Parish Mission, and witnessing the Gospel message to all. The PPC embraces the life and mission of the Parish through Word,
Worship, Community, and Service.
The PPC shall be the planning, consultative, and policy formulating body in all matters of the Parish including, but not limited to,
spiritual, educational, social, and financial concerns, with due respect to the scope and responsibility of the Finance Council. The
PPC is the primary advisory and consultative body to the Pastor. The PPC, after prayerful discernment, advises the Pastor and
develops policies. The PPC engages in a continuous process of pastoral planning which takes into consideration the needs of
Parishioners and the needs of the Diocese and community. The Finance Council identifies the resources required to achieve the
Parish Vision and Mission and prioritizes the budget based on the available resources.
The Parish Pastoral and Finance Councils (FC) are advisory bodies to the Pastor in strategic alignment, planning, discernment,
budgeting, and resource allocation. They often consult on questions such as:
• In what direction is the Parish headed?
• Are we aligned with the broader Church and with the needs of our Parish?
• What resources do we need?
The Building & Grounds Council (BGC) effectively manages the maintenance and operations of all buildings and facilities to
ensure a functional, safe, and healthy environment and to support the Saint Ann Catholic Church in the building up of the
kingdom of God.
Leadership Team (LT)
No Pastor can run a Parish on his own. He needs a team, a special group of leaders, who are collectively committed to helping him
make the Parish amazing and to bringing more people to Christ and His Church. The LT is the primary visionary body. It strengthens
the Parish by supporting the Pastor with decision-making assistance, allowing better and faster decisions, resulting in clearer
communications, inviting daily accountability for execution, and moving the Parish forward. The Pastor relies on the LT to help
him with strategic and tactical decisions and with implementation actions to carry out the Parish Mission and to achieve the Parish
Vision. The LT makes changes, at the discretion and direction of the Pastor, within the Parish to achieve the goals of becoming an
Amazing Parish.
The LT is not the same as the PPC. It should not supplant or eliminate any current structures in the Parish. Therefore, the work of
the PPC and FC remains basically unchanged. The PPC, FC, and LT have a central responsibility of praying with their Pastor for
the good of the work they are engaged in.
The Leadership Team meets to discuss several areas: review of the Sunday experience (Hospitality, Ministries, Hymns/Music,
Homilies/Message); progress toward St. Ann’s Big Amazing Goals (linkage of all communications media, personal commitment
by Parish families; Fellowship programs and outreach); review of the major activities in the Parish; and pray as a team (intentional
intercessions).
The Leadership Team, empowered by prayer and with input from the Councils, is a team of action and accountability. It
consults the Pastor at least weekly, on strategic and tactical questions such as:
• What is the Vision for the Parish and how should we execute it?
• Who should execute a given strategy and when?
Pastoral Council Chairperson: Christine Haas | 570.329.0306 | [email protected]
Finance Council Chairperson: Ron DeFeo | | [email protected]
Building & Grounds Council Chairperson: Steve Thaler | 570.327.1822 | [email protected]
Committees & Ministries
WORSHIP Pillar Chairperson: Bill Piotrowski | 570.321.6600 | [email protected]
Bereavement - Family & Funeral
Irma Logue | 570.323.1460 | [email protected]
The Bereavement Committee provides care, comfort, and support to the bereaved families of Saint Ann Parish in their experience
of loss in a way that is fully sensitive to their grief and responsive to their needs. This includes the planning of funeral services.
Little Flower Altar Guild (Liturgical Environment)
Sharon Buehrer | 570.326.6801 | [email protected]
The Altar Guild’s mission is to render, with dedication and loving attention, all holy housework needed for the liturgy and
worship at Saint Ann Catholic Church with an intention of creating a sacred environment of truth, peace, hope, charity, and love,
for the greater glory of God.
Liturgical Ministers: Altar Server, Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Greeter, Lector, Sacristan, and Usher
Deb LeFeber | 570.971.2913 | [email protected]
Altar Servers serve the Church by assisting the celebrant at each Mass. Adult servers provide assistance during weekday and
funeral Masses, and youth servers provide assistance during weekend and holiday Masses.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion serve the Church by distributing Holy Communion to the Faithful at Mass.
Greeters are the first face of welcoming in the church. They offer kind salutations to all that enter the church during weekend
liturgies and feast and holy day services.
Lectors serve the Church by proclaiming God’s Word in Masses, Communion Services outside Mass, Funeral Services, and to the
sick and homebound.
Sacristans ensure the security of the Sacristy and the Eucharist, serve as the Mass coordinator, and are responsible for Mass set
up and clean up. Sacristans assist the Celebrant in the preparations for Liturgies, including books, sacred vessels, vestments,
incense, and offertory.
Ushers help ensure the Liturgies flow smoothly. Ushers direct the congregation’s seating and movements outside the pews, take
up collections, and arrange for the presentation of the gifts. They are ministers of hospitality, representatives of the Parish, and
sources of information.
Liturgy Committee
Becky Goonan | 570.447.4795 | [email protected]
The Liturgy Committee members are the Clergy and Ministry representatives from Music, Faith Formation, Liturgical Ministers,
Bereavement, and Liturgical Environment, as well as Facilities Management and the PPC Worship Pillar Chairperson. The
Committee meets quarterly to ensure the next quarter’s Liturgies are properly planned and organized. The Committee maintains
the annual Liturgical calendar.
Music Ministry: Cantor, Choir Member, Digital Worship Aid Assistant, and Instrumentalist
Becky Goonan | 570.447.4795 | [email protected]
Cantors lead the congregation in song at all weekend liturgies, feasts and holy days, and funeral services.
Choir Members participate in the Sunday 9:45 Mass as well as feast and holy day services to enhance the liturgy and assist in
leading the congregation in song. The main choir is open to high schoolers and adults.
Digital Worship Aid Assistants control the screens at the front of the Church during all weekend liturgies and some holidays. This
would be a great position for middle school and high school students but is open to any who are comfortable using PowerPoint.
Instrumentalists include keys, strings, winds, brass, and percussion that participate in the liturgy to accompany the cantors,
choir, and small ensembles and enhance the liturgy. Music styles range from Gregorian chant to contemporary praise & worship.
WORD Pillar Chairperson: Paul Roman | 570.323.4389 | [email protected]
Children’s Liturgy of the Word
Caroline Cipriani | 570.337.7679 | [email protected]
Children in PreK-3 through 1st Grade are invited to a special activity time during the Liturgy of the Word at Sunday 9:45 Mass.
They listen to the readings for the day, and participate in crafts, games, and songs to make the readings come alive! The children
return to their families just before the Offertory. Mass bags are also available for children throughout all of Mass, and can be
found at the rear of the church.
E.N.E.R.G.Y. High School Youth Ministry – Exciting New Experiences Regarding God & Youth
Becky Goonan | 570.447.4795 | [email protected]
The mission of the High School Youth Ministry program is to encourage the young people of our faith community to become active
disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. This program engages young people in their faith through fellowship, faith sharing, and
service to others. The program builds strong relationships among young people and enhances their roles in the life of the Parish.
Open to 9th through 12th Grades.
J.U.M.P. Middle School Youth Ministry – JUMPing Deeper Into the Faith
Becky Goonan | 570.447.4795 | [email protected]
The mission of the Middle School Youth Ministry program is to encourage the young people of our faith community to become
active disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. This program engages young people in their faith through fellowship, faith sharing, and
service to others. The program builds strong relationships among young people and enhances their roles in the life of the Parish.
Open to 6th through 8th Grades.
L.A.U.G.H. Children’s Ministry – Learning About Us, God, & Humanity
Caroline Cipriani | 570.337.7679 | [email protected]
The mission of the Children’s Ministry program is to encourage the children of our faith community to become active disciples of
the Lord Jesus Christ. This program engages children in their faith through fellowship, faith sharing, and service to others. The
program builds strong relationships among children in a positive environment and enhances their roles in the life of the Parish.
Open to PreK-3 through 5th Grade.
OCFC - Ongoing Christian Formation Committee: Adult Faith Formation, Scripture Studies, and St. Faustina Library
Jessica Berkey | 724.301.3953 | [email protected]
The OCFC is a group of committed adults doing extraordinary work in helping us to grow in our knowledge of and love for our
Catholic faith. Above all, they have reminded us that as disciples (students!), our learning never ends. The OCFC orchestrates
Scripture and Catechetical studies, guest speakers, Advent and Lenten Retreats and evenings of reflection, and dissemination of
materials on a wide range of Catholic topics and issues. The OCFC sponsors many Adult Faith Formation activities. The OCFC
selects a book each year which is given to each Parishioner as a Christmas gift. Everyone is then invited to take part in a book
discussion in the early part of the new year. The OCFC conducts an adult Bible study on Sunday mornings while the children are
in Religious Education classes.
Religious Education – PreK-12
Tiffany Haller | 570.447.1110 | [email protected]
Saint Ann Religious Education seeks to promote full participation in the life of the Catholic Church among her families.
Developing relationships among children, their families, and the Parish community is a strong focus. RE strives to provide a rich
variety of faith experiences through a Christ-centered curriculum, liturgies, and prayer services in addition to honoring Sunday
Mass attendance.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Brian Haas | 570.329.0306 | [email protected]
RCIA inquirers consist of both unbaptized individuals seeking to learn the Christian faith from the beginning, but most often are
individuals baptized in another Christian tradition. The RCIA team of catechists provide a systematic and organic presentation of
the Catholic Christian faith with the goal of true conversion of the hearts of the individuals, promoting a personal relationship
with our savior Jesus Christ. For those that desire to enter fully into the Catholic Church, a course is offered starting in
September and continues throughout the year. Those that participate in the program and are spiritually ready receive the
sacraments at the Easter Vigil Mass.
Vacation Bible School (VBS)
Becky Goonan | 570.447.4795 | [email protected]
VBS is an annual week-long event in June that Saint Ann hosts with other local Catholic Churches. It is an opportunity for
students in PreK-3 through 5th Grade to grow in faith and fellowship in a kid-friendly setting with exciting games, songs, crafts,
and more! Students in 6th through 12th Grade as well as adult volunteers are always needed to make VBS a success.
Young Adult Group
Becky Goonan | 570.447.4795 | [email protected]
This program is focused on 18 to 35-year-olds. Saint Ann partners with other local Catholic Churches as well as Lycoming and
Penn Colleges to build community and promote discipleship and outreach. Weekly activities include Bible Study, small-group
prayer, service projects, and group outings, like bowling and the movies.
COMMUNITY Pillar Chairperson: Joe Geffre | | [email protected]
Adoration
Laura Brann | 570.485.9013 | [email protected]
The Mary, Mother of Mercy Adoration Chapel has a goal of perpetual adoration, but currently has a specific weekly schedule.
Please consider spending an hour with our Lord, as more hours are available for sign-up. Individuals and families welcome.
Bower Youth Basketball
Bob Cellini | 570.971.3403 | [email protected]
The purpose is to develop the character of our youth participants through athletic contests with other Lycoming County churches
sponsoring teams in the John H Bower Sunday School Basketball League.
Knights of Columbus
Chris Boyer | | [email protected]
The Knights of Columbus Council was Chartered in July 2015 and is actively growing. With Parish sponsorship the Knights
conducted the “40 Cans for Lent” food drive and donated over 2,100 pounds of canned foods to local Food Pantries. The council
holds monthly meetings to plan service projects and social gatherings.
Knit Wits
Barb Wassler | 570.326.3647 | N/A
The group knits and crochets baby blankets and hats for new born babies. They also make lap blankets for the Cancer Society,
and sometimes donate a blanket to someone who may be seriously ill at home. In the past they have also made lap blankets for
missionary priests to take back to their home countries for the sick and poor.
Lycoming County Catholic Home Schooling Program
Danita Evans | 910.887.0152 | [email protected]
This group meets twice a month to support Catholic home schooling families from all Parishes in Lycoming County as they work
toward the education goals they have created for their family. Promotes friendship and fellowship among the students to learn
different skills in a cooperative environment.
Mom’s Group
Jessica Berkey | 724.301.3953 | [email protected]
The St Ann Moms Group provides the opportunity for moms of all ages and stages of life to encourage each other in the vocation
of motherhood through prayer and study of scripture.
Pickleball
Vito Sylvester | 570.971.7333 | vito.pamfg.com
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the USA. It is a sport the whole family can enjoy together, and is suitable for
young, old, and in between. The rules are simple and the game is easy to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-paced,
competitive game for experienced players. Equipment is provided.
Virgin Mary’s Hands Rosary Guild
Rebecca West | 570.772.5261 | [email protected]
The guild is great for people who enjoy making crafts. They make rosaries and encourage people to pray the rosary. Those
rosaries made are sent to missions all around the world.
Scouts
Bill Carlucci | 570.326.2443 | [email protected]
The mission of Cub Scout Pack 38 and Boy Scout Troop 38 is, “to make the program of the Boy Scouts of America available to
youth within our community.” The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is “to prepare young people to make ethical and moral
choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.” The Scouts are very active in the Parish
and community and sponsor many social activities.
Senior Adults
Kathy Barry | 570.433.4638 | N/A
The Senior Adult Group meets monthly for lunch/meetings and organizes bus trips.
St. John Neumann Regional Academy (SJNRA)
Elementary Campus | 570.326.3738 | Jr/Sr High School Campus | 570.323.9953 | www.sjnra.org
Focused on faith, service, and academics, SJNRA is the vibrant Catholic education system for the Western Region of the Diocese.
Comprised of two campuses, the Elementary Campus, located at 710 Franklin Street in Williamsport, is for students grades Pre-K
through 5, and the Jr/Sr High School Campus, located at 901 Penn Street in Williamsport, is for students grades 6 through 12.
Welcoming Committee
Tiffany Haller | 570.447.1110 | [email protected]
The Welcoming Committee is a newly forming organization at St. Ann Church with an emphasis on fellowship and evangelization.
The purpose is to make those visiting or new to the Parish feel welcome, as well as to reach out to those who haven fallen away
from the Church.
Women’s Guild
Bernadette Subarton | 570.323.9634 | [email protected]
Our goal first and foremost is to grow spiritually in one another’s company through retreats, prayer services and
pilgrimages. Our secondary goal is to raise funds to support both our group and our Church. We have an annual bake sale on
Superbowl Sunday, a Cookie sale during the holidays and a book sale each Summer, just to name just a few of our most lucrative
fundraisers. Our annual card party has become a highly anticipated community event. We are proud to know that through our
hard work and dedication that a portion of our church debt has been paid. Needed items for our pastor, our rectory and our
Church have been purchased. We now host an annual Thanksgiving turkey dinner open to all of our church members. We've also
had the honor of hosting an "open house" at our beautiful rectory. Come join us at our monthly meetings as we pray and
plan and forge new friendships. Know that we will support you through trying times and share many joyful moments.
SERVICE Pillar Chairperson: Rosemary Wiegand | 570.322.9634 | [email protected]
C.A.R.E. Network – Charity Awareness & Response Empathy: Financial & Food Assistance and Parish Legislative
Network
Mary Trometter | 570.419.5068 | [email protected]
The mission of CARE is “by embracing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ and the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy,
establish and support social justice ministries in our Parish community through education, outreach, and advocacy.” This
Ministry with very active volunteers provides direct support to needy families through various programs including The Mary
Carlucci Food Pantry, Little Ones Clothes Closet, and over 160 food and gift card baskets.
Communications Committee
BJ McFadden | N/A | [email protected]
The mission of the committee is to provide church information that fosters a loving relationship with Jesus Christ and promotes
greater participation in Parish ministries, activities, and liturgical events. The committee works collaboratively with the Pastor,
councils, and committees to facilitate proper communications in support of the Parish mission and vision through print and
electronic media, including the bulletin, Parish website, electronic bulletin boards, and newspaper.
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the Sick and Homebound
Deb LeFeber | 570.971.2913 | [email protected]
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion distribute Holy Communion to the sick and homebound in Nursing Homes, Assisted
Living Facilities, and homes.
Family Promise
Bethany Houser | 570.971.6926 | [email protected]
Family Promise of Lycoming County empowers families to become and remain self-sufficient by breaking the cycle of
homelessness, providing community awareness and advocacy, and creating mission opportunities for individuals and faith based
communities. Three weeks during the year St. Ann Church, with the support of Resurrection Church (Muncy), hosts Family
Promise at the Convent. Volunteers are needed for set-up crew, dinner preparers, dinner/evening hosts, overnight hosts,
grocery/supply volunteers, take-down crew, cleaning crew, laundry, and van driver.
Open Heart Ministry
Lydia Comerford | 570.321.1505 | [email protected]
The mission of the Open Heart Ministry is to be present in mind, heart, and soul to the sick, homebound, and elderly in our
community in order to share God’s mercy, love, and compassion with His people. The committee pursues several outreach
programs, including home visits, coordination for Masses of the Anointing of the Sick, rides to and from Mass, seasonal greetings
and gifts, temporary food during times of need, and referral information for other services needed.
Parish Office Volunteers: Collection Counters and Various
Mary Jo Raniero | 570.322.5935 | [email protected]
Collection Counters meet on a weekly basis and receive funds collected from Mass offertories to count, record, and deposit them.
Various volunteers are needed throughout the year for bulk mailings and other large-scale office tasks.
Parish Office Volunteers: Rummage Sale
Kathy Noe | 570.546.8059 | [email protected]
Rummage sales are held twice a year and are supplied by the generous donations and work efforts of the Parish. All proceeds
benefit the church, and any unsold items are donated to the American Rescue Workers.
Prison Ministry
Phil Buehrer | 570.326.6801 | [email protected]
The mission of the Prison Ministry is to visit inmates at the Federal Correctional Complex, Allenwood, PA. The complex includes
a low and medium security prison. There are two groups that visit the prisons each week. One group visits the low security
prison every Thursday morning and a second group visits the medium security prison every Monday evening. Our main focus is to
bring Holy Communion to the Catholic inmates at the Allenwood facilities. If time permits, we also share a Rosary and other
prayers and conversation with the men. Our visits usually last one to two hours. The majority of our volunteers are
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, however, that is not a requirement to participate in this ministry. Volunteering does
not mean a weekly commitment. The amount of time devoted to the ministry is up to each individual volunteer.
Stewardship Committee
Ron DeFeo | | [email protected]
The mission of the committee is to lead and manage all church efforts to raise funds and enhance resources. The committee
develops and implements plans and activities that support all fundraising efforts, including COSA Cash Club, capital campaigns,
increased offertory programs, Diocesan Annual Appeal, and other resource-generating activities such as gifts and donations and
coordination with benefactors.
VOCATIONS Pastor: Fr. John Victoria | 570.322.5935 | [email protected]
Vocations include Priest/Deacon/Seminarian, Consecrated Life, and Married/Single Life.
For information on any of these, please contact Father John.
We ask that all Saint Ann parishioners prayerfully consider and commit
to joining a ministry.
Our Story
In the early days of the World War II, to accommodate the need of the Catholics of the Faxon, Kenmar, and Penn Vale
area, the Church of the Annunciation was prompted to offer Sunday Mass at the Loyalsock Firehouse on Northway
Road. The first Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was celebrated on May 24, 1942, by the Rev. Eugene Moran, Assistant
Pastor of the Church of the Annunciation.
On October 1, 1942, the Faxon, Kenmar, and Penn Vale areas were designated as a Mission of the newly established
parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in Montoursville by the Most Reverend William J. Hafey, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese
of Scranton. For two years the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was offered every Sunday in the Loyalsock Firehouse,
alternating with the Parish church, at 8:30 and 11:00. As the number of Catholics in the area increased, the Pastor
Reverend T. Otto Borr, was granted faculties by Bishop Hafey to offer Mass three times on Sundays and Holy Days.
On October 1, 1944, a 9:45 Mass was added at the Community Hall of the Penn Vale Federal Housing Project. This
schedule at the three facilities continued for three years. When the Rev. Carl W. Marty was appointed Assistant Pastor
at Our Lady of Lourdes, two Masses were said at the church in Montoursville, one in Faxon, and one at Penn Vale.
On August 14, 1945, nineteen lots at the intersection of Northway Road and Sheridan Street were acquired for the
future building of the Church of St. Ann. Six initial lots on the north side of Sheridan Street were donated by Mrs.
Ralph Benning and her sister, Mrs. Eva Soars of Northway Road, both of whom were parishioners. The six lots on the
south side of Sheridan Street, used as a baseball field for Loyalsock Little League, would later become the site of St.
Ann School and Convent, and were donated by Bishop Hafey, who designated that St. Ann be the patroness of the
future parish.
On December 4, 1949, services were discontinued at the Loyalsock Firehouse and both Masses for the area were
offered at the Penn Vale Community Hall at 8:00 and 9:45, pending the construction of the Church of St. Ann.
On the Feast of St. Ann, July 26, 1950, ground was broken for the new church by the Very Reverend Frank P.
McHugh, Pastor of the Church of the Annunciation and Dean of Tioga and Lycoming Counties. Construction was
begun immediately by George H. Roller Company, General Contractors.
On Sunday, October 7, 1951, the cornerstone was placed during ceremonies officiated by Father Borr. The Reverend
Leo J. Post, Pastor of St. Boniface Parish delivered the sermon, and Reverend McHugh was the Celebrant of
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.
The Church of St. Ann was dedicated by Bishop Hafey on Passion Sunday, March 30, 1952. The dedication Mass was
offered in the new church by Father Borr, under whose direction the church was erected. The Deacon of the Mass was
Msgr. Post. The sub-deacon of the Mass was Reverend Paul M. Baier, Chaplain of Divine Providence Hospital. The
Master of Ceremonies was Reverend Albert G. Brogus, appointed Assistant Pastor of the Church of St. Ann. The
Preacher of the occasion was Msgr. George T. Schmidt, Vicar General of the Diocese of Scranton and Pastor of St.
Mary's Church, Scranton, PA. Msgr. Joseph A. Madden, Assistant Chancellor of the Diocese of Scranton, served as
Master of Ceremonies to the Bishop for the dedication ceremony itself.
In April 1955 a home located at 1220 Northway Road, belonging to the estate of Mrs. Mary Emory, was purchased as
the St. Ann Rectory.
In 1959, the Church of St. Ann changed its status as a mission church of Our Lady of Lourdes and became an official
standalone parish. Father Borr was appointed as the first Pastor and released from his duties as Pastor of Our Lady of
Lourdes by the Most Reverend Jerome D. Hannon, D.D., Bishop of Scranton.
On Mar 1, 1962 Father Borr died. The following September, Msgr. Edward T. Sullivan was appointed Pastor of the
Church of St. Ann by Bishop Hannon. During the eleven years the followed, Msgr. Sullivan improved and expanded
the parish facilities.
On February 3, 1968, ground was broken for St. Ann School and Convent. This marked fulfillment of a cherished
dream that Father Borr had for many years. The School was established to provide for kindergarten and grades one
through six, after which the children would move to Junior High School. The school started with grades one through
four, with the additional two grades being added in the following year. The school was staffed by the Sisters of
Christian Charity, with Sister Angeline, S.C.C., as the first principal. The school eventually accommodated a Pre-
School and Kindergarten. In the early 2000’s, due to consolidation of the Catholic School System in the Williamsport
area, St. Ann School closed. At its closing, Sister Judith Blair, S.C.C., served as principal. The school building is now
the Parish Center for the Church of St. Ann. The former convent building is now the Mary, Mother of Mercy
Adoration Chapel.
In 1968, the interior of the church was renovated and the sanctuary refurbished to accommodate the implementation of
the newly revised Liturgy. A new altar facing the congregation was installed, but the original was retained. The
sanctuary was redecorated with wooden paneling and the altar railing was removed. Stained glass windows were also
installed in the nave and sanctuary, thus enhancing the beauty of the church.
In 1973, Bishop of Scranton, J. Carroll McCormick, D.D., transferred Msgr. Sullivan and appointed the Reverend John
R. Ferguson to succeed him. That same year, Father Ferguson was replaced by Reverend Leo T.A Burns. In 1975, the
Reverend Gerard M. Gannon became pastor. It was during his pastorate that the Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of the
Church of St. Ann was celebrated. Father Gannon's love for our Parish manifested itself in a way which breathed new
life into the Parish and prompted even more improvements to the church edifice, as well as to the Rectory with the
addition of the Parish offices.
The Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of the dedication of the Church of St. Ann was celebrated on the Feast of St. Ann, July
26, 1977 with a Pontifical Mass celebrated by the Most Reverend James C. Timlin, D.D., then Auxiliary Bishop of the
Diocese of Scranton.
In 1979, the Reverend William Kearney succeeded Father Gannon as Pastor of the Church of St. Ann. During his
pastorate, Father Kearney initiated a further renovation of the Church of St. Ann. The services of the architectural firm
of Frank Pavigla and the Community Counseling Service were employed. A new organ was installed. The walls and
stairways were insulated, plastered and repainted. Insulation was installed in the ceiling, and new lighting and
electrical systems and new carpeting were provided. The Sanctuary was remodeled by removing the original main
altar, replacing it with an arch-shaped reredos, and raising its floor to permit the Celebrant to be seated in front of the
reredos and to more easily preside at the Eucharist. A new Altar of Sacrifice, ambo and tabernacle, all crafted from
walnut enhanced the beauty of the Sanctuary. An additional entrance leading from the lower parking lot was added in
the enclosed stairwell adjacent to the bell tower to permit access to the front of the church nave. Father Kearney was
transferred in 1981, but the renovation was not completed until November 1981, after Father James Langan had
assumed his duties as Pastor. During his tenure as Pastor, Father Langan had central air conditioning added to the
church.
While Father Langan was pastor, the Church of the Assumption in Cascade was designated a mission church of the
Church of St. Ann. Mass is still celebrated on the grounds on Memorial Day and the Feast of the Assumption. Father
Langan served as Pastor of the Church of St. Ann/Assumption until January of 1997 when Father Andrew Kurovsky,
was appointed.
Realizing that the Fiftieth Anniversary of the dedication of the church was rapidly approaching, Father Andy instituted
a "Millennium Project" to further beautify and modernize the church. The entire sanctuary and church interior were
repainted, the reredos was painted a vibrant green, and the presider's chair was moved to the left of the altar to permit
the erection of a dramatic, sixteen-foot-tall free-standing crucifix, bearing a larger than life figure of the Crucified
Christ.
Three pews on the right of the nave were removed to permit the area to be used by the choir and music ministers. A
new electric piano was installed, and the sound system was updated. The church was re-carpeted and the Stations of
the Cross were refurbished and refinished. Later a new bell system, provided by the parishioners and by a major
donation from the First Slovak Catholic Ladies Association, was installed. The new system allows the chimes to be
played during services and to be broadcast to the surrounding area. To accommodate the elderly and those with
disabilities, a new parking lot was added on Northway Road, and ramps were added at the church entrance.
Father Andy served as pastor until May 2008 when Father Paul Fontanella was appointed pastor. Father Paul did many
great things for the Parish, including forming the Pastoral Council, implementing several adult faith formation
programs, establishing a strong working relationship with the Diocese of Scranton, installing and dedicating a new
altar, and renovating the sanctuary with new flooring, woodwork, and paint.
Father Paul served as pastor until January 28th, 2014 when Father Charles Cummings was appointed Parish
Administrator, pro tem.
Father Cummings served as Parish Administrator, pro tem until February 26th, 2014, when Father John Victoria was
appointed pastor. Father John remains the current pastor, and has done many great things to allow our Parish to
become an Amazing Parish. We look forward to what the next few years bring!
During the past 65 years our buildings have seen many changes and improvements. The faith of the people of God
called to form this community remains constant and makes all of this possible.
(Excepts taken from "The Church of St. Ann 50th Anniversary 1952-2002" Book)
Our Patroness: Saint Ann
Feast Day: July 26th
Ann, blessed above all others, we, too, bring our reverence, for you have given birth to the girl from whom He will
come Who is the basis of all our hope. Blessed, indeed, above all others, and blessed is your offspring! The tongues of
all believers sing the praises of your child. Every voice is raised in joy at her birth. How worthy Ann is of praise, most
worthy, for she received the message of God’s goodness, and brought forth such fruit that from it would come our
Lord, Jesus. — St John of Damascus (8th cent.)
As Saint Ann was the mother of Mary and the grandmother of Jesus, may we all feel a
warm embrace at “Grandma’s House.”
Good Saint Ann, Pray for us!
Our Campus
John & Grace Barry Pavilion
The Grotto
Parish Hall &
Mary Carlucci Food Pantry
Parish Office & Rectory
Parish Center
Mary, Mother of Mercy
Adoration Chapel & Convent
Parish Hall, Interior – Church Basement John & Grace Barry Pavilion, Exterior – Church Grounds
The Grotto, Exterior – Church Grounds Mary, Mother of Mercy Adoration Chapel, Exterior
Adoration Chapel, Interior
Grotto, Interior
Parish Center, Exterior Rectory & Parish Office, Exterior
St. Therese Room, Interior – Parish Center Multi-Purpose Room, Interior – Parish Center
St. Faustina Library, Interior – Parish Center Mary Carlucci Food Pantry, Interior – Parish Hall
All are welcome in this place.
