To the editor:
Given the nature of contemporary life, one would probably not expect anyone other than a pop celebrity to have a lasting impact on a large group of people. However, I know of at least one person who defies that notion: a priest from half way around the world who permanently left everyone and everything he knew in order to serve people in a culture where it is not at all easy to remain holy.
For four years, Father Eugene Dobosz was a gentle, selfless, tireless and fearless teacher and defender of Christ for the people of St. Casimir’s and St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Elmira. Originally from Poland, he brought with him a breath of fresh air untainted by the moral relativism which has become the unquestioned norm in the United States.
In the true imitation of Jesus Himself, Father Eugene delivered the Gospel message in its entirety, whether it was convenient or inconvenient, easy to handle or challenging. His actions demonstrated a level of holiness and reverence thought by some to no longer speak to modern Americans. But speak it did! The several hundred saddened parishioners at his farewell party and the standing ovations at his final weekend Masses as shepherd of St. Casimir’s and St. Charles are a testament to his love, dedication and service to his ecclesiastical family. Even when it was probably very inconvenient for him, his flock was always number one.
The good people in Auburn are fortunate to be getting such a pastor. Diocesan officials, please do your best to not only welcome more priests from countries with an abundance of vocations, but to actively request them. In addition to exemplifying the universality of the Church, they have a lot to contribute to the much-needed renewal of the faith in this country. In a way, they are our future!
Michael F. Tamara
West Eighteenth Street
Elmira Heights
