St. Michael’s School and Church community welcomed two very special guests last Sunday. Bishop Salvatore R. Matano, the newly installed Bishop of the Diocese of Rochester, and his assistant, Father Daniel White. Bishop Matano and Father White celebrated Mass with Father Jack O’Connor.
The Bishop’s visit was prompted by the many letters and cards from the students at St. Michael’s School welcoming him to the Diocese. Bishop Matano’s message during Sunday’s homily honored all families and parents, stating that it is the Church’s role to support parents who teach their children about Jesus. He was especially supportive of St. Michael’s School, citing that Jesus is welcome in every classroom and every subject that is taught.
After Mass Bishop Matano spoke with parishioners as they were leaving church and, acting as a true servant, helped the Knights of Columbus dish out eggs and pancakes at their monthly breakfast fundraiser. As he circulated around the church hall he personally spoke to everyone in attendance and posed for a photo with several St. Michael’s School students, teachers and principal Jim Toner. Conor and Erin Clancy sought out the Bishop to have him bless their Rosaries. Bishop Matano showed them a relic that he carries with him – a piece of the wood from the original cross on which Jesus died.
