Called to serve: Father Vito Perrone installed as pastor of Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church

By Mary Powers

From the opening hymn to the greetings at the reception, Contemplative of St. Joseph Father Vito Perrone’s pastor installation was one reflecting humble service, continuing to answer God’s call in his life.

The Contemplatives of St. Joseph were founded 12 years ago when Father Perrone was called to begin a monastic community that would actively serve the Church in the Archdiocese of San Francisco. The order has been based at Mater Dolorosa since its founding.

“What an incredible gift it is to be named pastor at Mater Dolorosa,” said Father Perrone. “Twelve years ago, I never would have expected that this would have taken place. We are contemplatives that move into the world and into the suffering that’s in this world. We move into all that humanity bears, responding to the call of crucified love.”

The Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone, was held on Nov. 6 and was standing room only. Even the parish hall was filled with parishioners and friends of the Contemplatives of St. Joseph.

Archbishop Cordileone thanked Father Perrone for his service to the Church and for the Contemplatives of St. Joseph embracing the Mater Dolorosa parish community.

Father Perrone greeted members of the parish leadership as their new pastor, and after leading the congregation in the Prayer of the Faithful, he knelt before the Archbishop to pledge his fidelity to the teachings of the Church.

Following Mass, a joyful reception was held to celebrate Father Perrone. Parishioners greeted their new pastor and sang a  song wishing him many happy years.

“You’re not only getting a pastor today,” Father Perrone told parishioners “You’re getting a whole community. You’re getting priests, brother, sisters and third members who are all here to serve Mater Dolorosa parish.”

Photos: Colleen Hera