In memoriam: Reverend Robert D. Chryst
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Reverend Robert D. Chryst, priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse, passed away on Saturday, October 26 at the age of 82. He served the diocese for 56 years as parish priest, pastor, chaplain and as Director of the Spanish Apostolate.
Father Chryst was born in Syracuse to Robert and Katherine (Sullivan) Chryst and attended Most Holy Rosary Parish and school. He studied at St. Andrew and St. Bernards seminaries in Rochester leading to ordination in Syracuse in May 1968. In 1973 he entered the Syracuse University College of Law and was admitted to the New York State Bar Association as an attorney in 1977.
Fr. Chryst’s first assignment following ordination was as assistant pastor at St. Lucy’s in Syracuse until 1983. He was priest in residence at St. Anthony of Padua from 1983 to 1995. He was then appointed administrator serving until retirement in 2021.
Father Chryst contributed greatly to the diocese serving as Director of the Spanish Apostolate from 1969 to 2021. He also was Diocesan Liaison with the Charismatic Renewal Movement from 1980 to 1990.
Father Chryst also served as a chaplain at Auburn State Correctional Facility.
He also was regional co-director of prayer groups for the Western Vicariate.
Celebrating his 50th jubilee as a priest in 2018, Father Chryst told the Sun that he lived by these words from 1 Peter (5:7), “Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.” He added ” That’s certainly a good guidance for any Christian.”
Father Chryst also said he never ceases to be impressed by “our wonderful laypeople and the great example that they give us” and the support that they give priests. His ministry specifically touched many community populations, including Hispanic, Black and Native American members.
All services and arrangements will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1515 Midland Ave. If attending, please use the Fage Ave. entrance for parking or street parking on Midland Avenue or Colvin Street. Calling hours will be Thursday November 7th from 4pm to 6pm followed by a Vigil Mass for a Deceased Priest. Per Fr. Chryst’s wishes, the vigil will be predominantly said in Spanish, and all are invited to enter into this special prayer and participate. Fr. Brendan Foley will be the celebrant.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, November 8 at 10am. Bishop Douglas J. Lucia will be the main celebrant and Bishop Emeritus Robert J. Cunningham will be the homilist.
