Latest 'Nods
Nod to the Collar

Want to acknowledge a priest who has made a positive impact on your life?

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Want to acknowledge a priest who has made a positive impact on your life?

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Latest ‘Nods

Below are ‘Nods to priests who have made a favorable impression in someone’s life. It’s important to let our priests know they are appreciated, respected, and supported.

Want to create your own ‘Nod? Click the “Create a ‘Nod” button to learn how you can submit a video or audio recording, orgininal artwork, or a written statement.

Video & Audio ‘Nods

Artwork ‘Nods

Fr. Ryan Truss

Fr. Ryan Truss

A Fair day, a fresh start

A ‘Nod to you Father for reminding us that sometimes the best place for a priest to meet people is simply wherever they are…

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Fr. Francis Vivacqua

Fr. Francis Vivacqua

Father Vivacqua reminds us each and every week that "The sun will come out tomorrow". He provides insight and meaning to each gospel reading in a straight forward and positive fashion. He often accompanies each homily with everyday examples of how we can "live" the...

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Written ‘Nods

Fr. Cassian Derbes

I wanted to extend a ‘Nod and a moment to thank you for the impact your ministry and teaching have had on me. As someone who has been discerning a possible call to the priesthood, I often think about the kind of formation it takes to serve the Church well—not just in parish life, but in guiding others who themselves carry responsibility for teaching and leadership.  Learning that you spent so much of your work forming bishops, clergy, and leaders in the Church has been incredibly meaningful to me. It’s one thing to speak about faith, but another entirely to help shape those entrusted with shepherding the wider Church. That level of service has given me a deeper understanding of what faithful formation really looks like: steady, thoughtful, and rooted in truth and prayer.  Your example has helped me see priesthood not just as something done at the altar on Sundays, but as a life of building up others so they can, in turn, lead with integrity and faith. That vision has been encouraging and clarifying for me in my own discernment.  Thank you for your witness, your teaching, and your dedication to forming others in the heart of the Church.

Lucas

Fr. Louis Cona

I am writing to express my profound respect for the priesthood, exemplified by a recent experience. On a Sunday morning, while waiting on line for confession, I felt discouraged as confessional time ran down and Mass was soon to begin. Witnessing the strain on Father Cona’s face as he quickly moved to best balance the squeeze in time he kindly turned back to the confessional. Father Cona’s committment and spiritual compassion to still take my confession was truly rewarding. It reached me with warmth only further deepening my faith and respect for the enormous pressures Priests find themselves journeying as they bring us closer to God. Thank you Father Cona for just being your God serving self. We are all blessed to have you at St. Patrick’s.

Chris

Fr. Drew Hoffman

A ‘Nod to Fr Drew for the incredible work you’re doing to guide young men who are discerning the priesthood. Through your podcast and the honest, relatable conversations you share, you’re creating a space where young men can ask questions, explore their vocation, and feel encouraged as they try to figure out where God is calling them. That work matters more than you probably realize. Helping someone recognize a calling to the priesthood can change not only his life, but the lives of countless people he may one day serve. Thank you for giving your time, your wisdom, and your own experience so generously, and for helping the next generation of priests hear God’s call a little more clearly. We’re so grateful for you, Fr. Drew.
Brett

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Nod to the Collar
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