By John C. O'Connell
Father Thomas J. Harold was installed as pastor of Holy Name of Mary R.C. Church last Sunday. In a Mass at the Valley Stream church, "Father Tom" was formally presented to the parish as its new pastor, and a community get-together followed on the church green.
Monsignor John Dreasen joined the new pastor's associates in the parish ministry in officially welcoming him as pastor, including Fr. James Maltese, Fr. Stephen Brigandi, Fr. Saji George, Deacon Anthony Cuseo, Deacon James O'Hara, Deacon Clyde Ruggieri, Deacon Richard Raad, Deacon Robert Walsh, Sister Elizabeth Lynch, Sister Barbara Shea, Sister Margaret Kelly, Mr. Kevin Faughey, and Mrs. Lisa Allongo.
The previous and much loved pastor, Monsignor Daniel E. Fagan, 64, passed away on April 25th. He had been pastor since June 1995.
In a statement to parishioners and friends, Fr. Tom, the eighth pastor of the parish, said: "In my short time with you this past year, I realize what a privilege it is to be among you as priest and pastor. The Catholic Faith Community is a very vibrant one here in Holy Name of Mary.
"Our people are fervent in prayer, dedicated to the service of one another, and committed to living and proclaiming the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. We are deeply concerned about the growth of our younger members and attentive to the needs of our senior members.
"I am most happy to be here, and share life with you. I look forward to many years with you!"
Fr. Tom thanked the parishioners who organized the celebration of his installation. "Many people have contributed to the liturgy and the festivities which will follow this Mass. I am grateful to all those parishioners who helped organize our liturgy and the reception outside on the parish lawn.
"My prayer is that our loving God will grace us with many more joyous celebrations that help us to grow as a family of faith under the protection and intercession of Our Blessed Mother.
"May the grace and peace of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you and all those you love."
