Our Heros

of the Southern Tier of New York

Our local Roman Catholic priests stand as true heroes, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in every aspect of their ministry. They tirelessly serve their parishes, not merely as spiritual leaders but as guardians of hope and unity. Each day, they provide guidance, celebrate sacraments, and comfort the grieving, ensuring no one feels abandoned in their struggles. Their work often extends far beyond the walls of the church, reaching into schools, hospitals, and homes, where they become a source of solace and inspiration. These men dedicate their lives to selfless service, carrying the burdens of their parishioners with grace while reminding them of the unyielding presence of God’s love.

In the broader community,  as our priests and deacons shine beacons of integrity and moral leadership. They advocate for social justice, support the marginalized, and foster interfaith dialogue to promote understanding and peace. Whether visiting the sick, organizing food drives, or mentoring the youth, they tirelessly work to heal wounds and build bridges. Their steadfast commitment to living the Gospel’s message, often at great personal sacrifice, is a testament to their heroism. In a world hungry for authenticity and compassion, these priests serve as living examples of what it means to lead a life of purpose, embodying Christ’s call to love and serve one another.

Of course, they could not do what they do without their staff – secretaries, volunteers, maintenance support team, Director of Religious Education and their staff and volunteers, School Principal, teachers, staff, etc.  They are all heros!

But without the sacrifices of the priests and deacons, where would we be?

Meet them here

Father Matthew Walter

Ordained June 1, 2019

Hometown: Our Lady of Victory / St Joseph’s Parish, Rochester

Current Parish: All Saints, Corning

Deacon Brian Mizzoni

Ordained: August 21, 2021

Hometown: All Saints, Corning

Current Parish: All Saints, Corning

Father Rick Farrell

Ordained: May 18, 1984

Hometown: Rochester

Current Parish: The Most Holy Name of Jesus

Father Scott Kubinski

Ordained: June 1, 1984

Hometown: St Casimir’s, Elmira

Current Parish: The Most Holy Name of Jesus

Deacon Joseph Erway

Ordained: June 5, 2010

Hometown:

Current Parish: The Most Holy Name of Jesus

Deacon Al Pacete

Ordained: 2008

Hometown: Bugasong, Antique, Philippines

Current Parish: The Most Holy Name of Jesus

Deacon Paul Sartori

Ordained: June 5, 2010

Hometown: Elmira

Current Parish: The Most Holy Name of Jesus

Deacon George Welch

Ordained: 1982

Hometown: Waverly, NY

Current Parish: The Most Holy Name of Jesus

Father Patrick Connor

Ordained: April 8, 1983

Hometown: Our Lady of Victory, Lackawana, NY

Current Parish: Sts Isidore & Maria Torribia

Deacon David LaFortune

Ordained: 2005

Hometown: New Orleans, LA

Current Parish: Ss. Isidore & Maria Torribia Parish

Deacon Douglas Farwell

Ordained: June 1, 2013

Hometown: Corning

Current Parish: Ss. Isidore & Maria Torribia Parish

Father Jeffrey S Tunnicliff

Ordained: June 20, 2007

Hometown: St Mary of the Lake, Watkins Glen

Current Parish: St Mary’s of the Lake, Watkins Glen, St Benedict’s, Odessa

Deacon Rick Roy

Ordained: 2003

Hometown:

Current Parish: St Mary’s of the Lake, Watkins Glen, St Benedict’s, Odessa

Deacon Tom Ruda

Ordained: June 2, 2012

Hometown:

Current Parish: St Mary’s of the Lake, Watkins Glen, St Benedict’s, Odessa

Father Christopher Linsler

Fr Linsler’s photo removed by request

Ordained: 1978

Hometown: St Catherine of Siena, Addison

Current Parish: St Mary Our Mother

Fr Peter Singano

Ordained – Aug 20, 2011

Hometown – Catholic Diocese of Tanga

Current Parish – St Mary Our Mother

Father John DeSocio

Ordained: 1978

Hometown: St Anthony, Elmira

Senior Status residing in Elmira

Father Jeffrey Galens

Ordained: May 12, 1990

Hometown: Clifton Springs, NY

Current Parish: St James Church, Waverly

Father James Mascatella

Ordained: June 29, 2024

Hometown: Parish of Holy Family, Gates, NY

Current Parish: St James Church, Waverly

Rev. Teodor B. Czabala, Jr

Ordained:

Hometown:

Current Parish: St. Nicholas [Ukrainian], Elmira Heights

Deacon Ray Defendorf

Ordained – 1982

Hometown – Rochester

Senior Status / Retired

Thank them when you see them