Traveling to Colombia to help, newly ordained Father Victor Sierra celebrate his ordination at the first Mass in his home parish was a pilgrimage, a cultural eye-opening, and a little bit of a vacation. Deacon David Vaillancourt tells the story.

The Worcester Diocese reorganized its Diocesan Finance Council by updating bylaws, Father Richard F. Reidy said this week. He credited Patricia L. Jones, outgoing chairwoman, for her leadership in the adoption of the new bylaws, approved by Bishop McManus.

WORCESTER – Altering genetic material could lead to improved health for some human beings, and injustice for others. Father José A. Rodríguez, pastor of Holy Family of Nazareth Parish and Holy Trinity Chapel in Leominster, raised these issues at Theology on Tap June 5.

Once a month Timothy T. Messenger Jr. becomes a mob boss. Sort of, and in a good way. His mobs go to Mass. Mr. Messenger is diocesan director of the youth and young adult ministry, New Evangelization Worcester for Youth & Young Adults. One of the many activities that office plans is a Mass Mob

Father Alan J. Martineau, ordained June 23 in St. Paul Cathedral, said that he first thought of the priesthood as being interesting when he watched his pastor, Father James F. Hoey, read notes before Mass, then deliver a homily from memory.

Melkite Patriarch Youseff (Joseph) Absi will be coming to New England from Lebanon to visit Melkite parishes in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island from July 10-15. He will be in Worcester at Our Lady of Perpetual Help July 14.