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Did you know that there is a National Association of Priest Pilots? It has actually been in existence for over 50 years! And, believe it or not, I am the current president of the group. The purpose of this association is for priests who also share an interest in aviation to come together, enjoy each other’s company, pray, and explore their common hobby and interest in flying. The mission of the group is to provide some assistance to those who actually use aviation in the service of the Catholic faith. Dioceses such as those in Alaska and other parts of the world where aviation is a necessity use pilots to reach the people of the dioceses and to bring them the sacraments.
Each year, we hold a convention in some place where one of our members is the host. Three years ago, I hosted the group in our area. Our members flew into Zelienople Airport. We celebrated Mass together at Saints John and Paul and held our annual convention meeting. On the aviation side, we visited the local National Guard re-fueling wing at the Pittsburgh Airport. They gave us a tour and allowed us to experience their simulator which they use to train our service men and women to refuel in the air! We also had a tour of Pittsburgh on the “ducky” amphibious vehicles that unfortunately no longer operate. Our experience was tremendous.
We always gather the week after the 4th of July. So this year, our convention will be held in Dubuque, Iowa. We were due to gather there last year, but due to the pandemic, it was postponed until this year. I will be flying out with two of our other members, Fr. Jack Fitzgerald, and an associate member, Jim Knight, who is a retired FBI agent and CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) pilot. Jim and his wife are new members of Holy Spirit Parish. Say a prayer that we may have good weather, a safe flight, and an enjoyable time as we take to the skies.
Please don’t forget that in July, we are continuing to honor the Feast Days of the Patron Saints of our churches. On Saturday, July 17th, at 4:00 pm, we will celebrate the Feast Day of St. Camillus de Lellis in St. Camillus Church. There will be a small reception following Mass. Born May 25, 1550, Camillus de Lellis, M.I., was a Roman Catholic priest from Italy who founded the Camillians, a religious order dedicated to the care of the sick.
God love you,
