On Sunday, June 15, the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest opened its newest apostolate, St. Mary of the Assumption Shrine in Oswego, New York, with the celebration of its first Solemn High Mass. 

 

 

 

This historic occasion took place at the gracious invitation of His Excellency Bishop Douglas Lucia of the Diocese of Syracuse. Representing the bishop, Father John Mano, Vicar General of the diocese, conveyed His Excellency’s heartfelt greetings to the hundreds of faithful who filled the cathedral-like church for this inaugural Mass.

Monsignor Michael Schmitz, Vicar General in the Institute, was the celebrant of the Solemn Mass, assisted by Canon Matthew Talarico, U.S. Provincial Superior. Canon Edward Gardner, newly appointed Rector of the Shrine, preached the sermon.

 

Canon Gardner is joined at the Shrine by Abbé Nicholas Tousignant, a clerical oblate of the Institute, who will assist in the spiritual care of the growing community.

The Institute is grateful to the Diocese of Syracuse and Bishop Lucia for the warm welcome and looks forward to serving the faithful at St. Mary of the Assumption Shrine.