FLORIDA: MARY HELP IN TAMPA FETES JUBILARIANS

(Tampa, Fla. – May 15) – On Saturday, May 12, the community at Mary Help of Christians Center in Tampa celebrated the jubilee anniversaries of Fr. John Masiello, Fr. Sid Figlia, and Fr. Steve Dumais. Fr. John celebrates 60 years of Salesian priesthood this year; he was ordained on June 13, 1958. Fr. Sid celebrates 50 years of Salesian priesthood; he was ordained on June 1, 1968. Fr. Steve Dumais celebrates 40 years of Salesian priesthood; he was ordained on May 19, 1978.

The festivities began with a Mass of Thanksgiving at 5:00 p.m., celebrated by Mary Help’s director, Fr. Steve Ryan. The three jubilarians, along with other members of the SDB community, concelebrated. Fr. Dumais gave the homily, and the three jubilarians together renewed their Salesian vows.

Following the Mass, family members and friends of Frs. Masiello, Figlia, and Dumais, along with friends and parishioners from Mary Help Center, enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and cake. Friends of each jubilarian came up to the microphone and shared stories (and perhaps a little roasting!), family members brought photographs, and one of Fr. Sid’s friends even brought a cheesecake that she’d baked using his very own recipe! Fr. John ended the night with joyful words in gratitude for the celebration and for his priesthood and Salesian life. He then led everyone in a Hail Mary to close the evening.