Forming Leaders, Celebrating Faith, Nurturing Vocations

Inspiring a Community of Lay Leaders

In a sure sign that fall is approaching, the Diocese hosted our annual Parish Leadership Convocation on Saturday for catechetical leaders, teachers and volunteers as they prepare to begin a new year of programs in our parishes.  We gathered at St. John Neumann Parish in East Freetown, and it was my pleasure to celebrate Mass to begin the day.

In our Gospel from Luke 6:43-49, the evangelist recounts these words of Jesus to his disciples: “A good tree does not bear rotten fruit, nor does a rotten tree bear good fruit.” I love trees, particularly the majestic sequoia, and I explained that, contrary to what one might expect, these massive trees do not have deep roots. Rather, their roots spread outward over a wide area and intertwine with one another, providing strength and support. Their interconnected root systems help keep these giant trees alive, growing, and strong.

The lesson applies readily to our own lives. None of us is meant to journey alone, nor should we desire to do so. We benefit from being part of a family, a parish, and a community. Through these relationships, we support one another and are ourselves supported. Our interconnectedness helps us remain strong, resist temptation, and endure the unavoidable challenges we face.

It is usually easy to tell when a tree is healthy and bears good fruit. I told those gathered at the Convocation that, when it comes to living and sharing our faith, we too should be recognized as authentic witnesses. Authenticity cannot be manufactured. St. Paul VI observed that modern people listen more willingly to witnesses than to teachers. I reminded them that, more than ever, the world needs authentic witnesses who speak from the heart about the values we hold, the dignity of every person, and the faith that sustains us. In doing so, we fulfill the mission entrusted to us at Baptism: to share the Good News with others.

During the Convocation program, I had another opportunity to speak, turning to a very different topic: brain lateralization, concerns about our rapidly growing dependence on technology, and the need to preserve genuine human connection and presence. It is too much to summarize here, but you can read about my talk, along with the presentation by Acts XXIX of Detroit, in this week’s Anchor e-newsletter and on its website.

Celebrating 60 Years of Faith at Holy Cross Parish

It was a joy to celebrate Mass with the faithful of Holy Cross Parish in Easton as the community marked its 60th anniversary. Since its establishment, the parish has been faithfully served by priests of the Congregation of Holy Cross, which also sponsors nearby Stonehill College.

I am grateful to the parish’s current pastor, Father Brad Metz, C.S.C., and to all who have helped build this vibrant community of faith over the past six decades. May God continue to bless Holy Cross Parish and guide its people for generations to come!

Called to Serve II: More Reflections from Our Seminarians

Last week, we heard from three of our seminarians about the people, experiences and moments of grace shaping their journeys toward the priesthood. Their reflections reminded us that every vocation unfolds in its own way and in God’s time.

This week, we continue the series with:

• David Ferrucci, who is studying at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts.
• Myles Forgue, a parishioner of St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish in New Bedford, who is studying at St. John’s Seminary in Brighton, Massachusetts.

I am grateful to David and Myles for sharing their stories and invite you to keep them, and all our seminarians, in your prayers.

Reflection from Dave Ferrucci

As I begin another year of seminary studies, I find myself filled with deep gratitude for the opportunity to continue growing in my relationship with Christ and discerning His call in my life. Starting a new year brings a mixture of excitement and quiet humility. For me, seminary isn’t just about preparing for a future role in ministry—it is a daily invitation to let the Lord shape me from the inside out into the man and priest He is calling me to be. I look forward to both the joys and the challenges ahead, trusting that God is working in the quiet, ordinary routines just as much as in unexpected moments.

Seminary life requires a continuous balancing act of prayer, rigorous study, community, and personal growth. While the academic work can certainly be demanding, its real purpose is to deepen my understanding of the faith so I can serve God’s people faithfully. Most of all, living in community reminds me daily that no one walks the path to priesthood alone. My brother seminarians, formators, professors, and the people I meet along the way all have something to teach me. As I begin the new year, I hope and pray to stay open to the Lord, strengthen my trust, and embrace every single day as another meaningful step toward the priesthood.

Reflection from Myles Forgue

Greetings from Saint John’s Seminary! Please know of our sincere gratitude for your continued prayers, encouragement, and accompaniment as we draw close to our Lord in priestly formation. It is a great blessing to be here in this holy house, immersed in the life of the seminary — and I thank God constantly for the countless people who have made this journey possible.

There is a beautiful rhythm to the way of life that helps the seminarian conform his heart to the heart of Christ. We give God the first fruits of our day as we acclaim Him with one voice in Lauds form; Holy Mass. He remains with us as we engage in study, ministry, recreation, and times of fraternity. We draw near to Him once again in the evening for Holy Hour and Vespers, resting with the Lord in quiet prayer and contemplation. But this life is not embraced for our sake; it is embraced for you — for the people of God! As you pray for us, we pray for you! As often as we approach the altar, we hope to bring many intentions before our Heavenly Father, the giver of all good gifts. If you are going through something, hoping for something, or simply have someone you want remembered in prayer, please send us your intention. May God bless you and your commitment to the life of the Church!

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha