The Reverend Anthony Pileggi has been appointed our new chaplain effective April 1, 2011.
Prior to coming to our home, Father Anthony was Associate Pastor at Immaculate Conception Church in Elkton, Maryland. Father graduated from Neumann College with a degree in communications and attended seminary at Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University. Father Anthony was ordained on May 19, 2007 by Bishop Michael Saltarelli.
During a recent conversation with Father Anthony, he offered his thoughts on sharing his life with our elderly Residents. “As a priest, I am concerned for those whose health has been seriously impaired by illness or old age. By the Amazing Grace of God, I will offer them a new sign of hope by the Anointing of the Sick accompanied by the prayer of the faithful (James 5:14). I look forward to celebrating the Eucharist with everyone at Jeanne Jugan Residence. In helping them to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, the bread from heaven, will help them find hope that only God can give.”
Quoting Blessed Pope John Paul II, “Old age is a gift for which we are called to give thanks … life is always a gift.” We asked Father how, as the new chaplain he expects to share this enrichment with our Residents, staff and the Little Sisters of the Poor. Father Anthony answered: “I hope to develop a better understanding of God’s love for all of us through weekly bible study groups or book clubs for those who might be interested in learning more about their faith.”
Father Anthony has a God-given talent with his affinity for music and hopes to share this passion through liturgical music. He has been a church organist since he was very young and looks forward to incorporating liturgical music in the celebration of the Mass. By singing the Kyrie, Gloria and Agnus Dei during Mass, Father Anthony feels this musical expression will enhance the liturgy and provide a beautiful experience for all who attend the celebration of the Eucharist in our chapel.
During our most recent Rock for the Aged event, Father Anthony joined in the Karaoke contest with a version of “That’s Life.” After this unique performance, Father Anthony said, “I don’t have a lot of talent, I don’t have a lot of skills but I do have a lot of love for you (Residents), and that’s what it is all about.”
The Little Sisters Welcome Father Anthony to Jeanne Jugan Residence