With Mary’s guidance, Our Lady of Loretto pastor seeks to be servant of the parish

By Mary Powers

Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone officially installed Father Tony Vallecillo as pastor of Our Lady of Loretto Catholic Church in Novato on Sunday, Oct. 30. Father Vallecillo has led the parish the past two years both as parish administrator and pastor.

The event was a family celebration, not only for the parishioners and families of Our Lady of Loretto parish and school, but also for the Vallecillo family. Joining Father Vallecillo for the celebration were his mother and father and three of his brothers.

Father Vallecillo thanked the  parents and school children of Our Lady of Loretto for being so supportive over these past two years.

Archbishop Cordileone congratulated the parishioners on the installation of their new pastor, speaking in homily about the Church’s mission to spread the Gospel to all the world and make disciples of all nations.

At the reception following Mass, Fr. Vallecillo echoed the Archbishop’s homily, speaking of service and the important role Our Lady plays in his life as pastor, leading the parish.

“I truly feel blessed being pastor of this parish because it’s named after the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Loretto,” said Father Vallecillo.  “In my two years as pastor here, I have felt her embrace and that has really guided me forward…Our Lady said, ‘Behold I am the servant of the Lord,’ and I say, ‘Behold I am the servant of this parish.’ I am committed to doing my best to bring our parishioners to sanctity.”

Photos courtesy of Colleen Hera and Mary Powers