Called by name — literally

Father Joseph O’Connor starts new role in Maryland, effective Aug. 1

By Tami S. Scott
Editor

Wearing black clerical attire, a white collar, and an orange backpack slung over both shoulders, Father Joseph O’Connor, during a recent meeting with The Catholic Sun, could easily have been mistaken for a later-stage seminary student. His energy remained high, even at the end of a typical 9-to-5 workday, when most are winding down. But the work of a priest isn’t confined to morning, afternoon, or night shifts — it includes all of the above.

Seminarians, too, have rigorous schedules. Their formation involves theological and biblical studies, training in pastoral care, preaching, and counseling, as well as Human, Spiritual, Intellectual, and Pastoral Formation — and that list is not exhaustive. Crucial to seminarians are their leaders, who offer personalized guidance and support, serve as their points of contact, and act as mentors throughout their entire formation journey.

Effective August 1, Fr. O’Connor will join Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, as Vice Rector. Bishop Douglas J. Lucia announced the five-year appointment on July 10. The news came as a shock and saddened many in the Diocese, but as was stated in the announcement, the matter was carefully considered and “despite the privation his absence will be to the Diocese of Syracuse, his service to the Church in the United States, especially in the human formation of future parish priests with a shepherd’s heart, is most crucial at this time.”

Father O’Connor currently serves as pastor of three Baldwinsville parishes: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Augustine, and St. Mary of the Assumption. He is also the diocesan director of seminarian formation and vicar forane of Vicariate 1, which includes Oswego County and Northwest Onondaga County. As vicar forane, he acts as the bishop’s representative in that region, coordinating pastoral activities and supporting the clergy.