From Monsignor Marino….

I want to say “thank you all” for the wonderful celebration we had last Sunday in honor of the 50th anniversary of my Ordination to the Priesthood. I wanted it to be simple yet beautiful, and that is exactly what it was!!

The Mass itself was celebrated with reverence and beauty. The presence of so many of my brother priests who concelebrated the liturgy made it more special.

The Basilica was filled with friends of mine from other parishes and, of course, from Regina. As I walked up the aisle I was smiling and happy as I recognized so many faces. Even a former Altar boy from my first parish came with his lovely wife. (I also married them and baptized their now-grown children.)

Over the years I saw that people love their priests and never forget many encounters they had with them. Friendships are not supposed to end!

OUR CHOIR WAS AT THEIR BEST. Everyone agreed. All the music, instrumentalists, choirs, and singing, made it a super glorious Mass. Special thanks to the Chinese choir who sang something special to them.

The plaque in the vestibule, which will forever be part of the fabric of the Basilica, is beautiful. It was made in Germany as a gift from many parishioners who chipped in for it.

Finally, the reception in the Conference Center was enjoyed by everybody. The delicious food and beautiful cake hit the spot, along with the delicious Prosecco which was served.

So many people worked on preparing all these things. I am grateful to each one of you.

I also am grateful to the many people who gave me gifts—from money to wine. I will put them all to good use.

You see, when we all come together as a parish, great things are possible.

May God bless all of you,

Msgr. Ronald Marino