Submitted by Sean Madden, Oswego
OSWEGO, NY – I have been a parishioner at St. Joseph’s Church my whole life.
I’ve seen priests come and go but watching our current pastor leave has been difficult.
Father James Cesta has been the pastor at St. Joseph’s for 12 years.
During that 12 years, so many positive things have happened.
Sunday mass is well-attended, donations keep coming in, new people are becoming involved in the church and many new parishioners have joined St. Joseph’s.
Father Cesta has a way of making people feel welcome and makes people feel like a part of the family.
The pasta dinners, the brunch for new parishioners, the eggplant booth at Harborfest, Mardi Gras, and dinner theaters are just a few of the many examples.
I have known Father Cesta since I was 13 and in that time I’ve gotten to know him and his family.
He’s done such great things for the church and the community.
I wish the people of a parish had some say as to whether their parish priest should move on or continue the great work they’re doing at the parish.
The “after 12 years the priest moves to another parish” rule is a man-made rule, not a church rule.
Since the people of the parish are the ones who keep the church open with their donations, they should have some say.
If the parish is thriving and people are happy then why try and fix what isn’t broken?
Father Cesta has played an instrumental role in keeping St. Joseph’s moving forward.
The 12 years went by too fast.
We’re not only losing our pastor – we’re losing a member of our family- our friend.
To Father Cesta – you will be missed at St. Joseph’s but certainly remembered for all of the good work you have done and the difference you have made in so many lives including mine.
Know that you are always welcome here.
We hope to see you soon.
Arrivederci!
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