SALESIAN B&G CLUB OF EAST BOSTON ENDS SCHOOL YEAR, SAYS GOOD-BYE TO FR. JOHN NAZZARO

by Fr. Jay Horan, SDB

(East Boston – June 18) – The Salesian Boys & Girls Club of East Boston completed its school year program on June 15.  For the members who attend only during the school year, that day also concluded 11 years of Fr. John Nazzaro’s leadership of the Club.

Before prayers Fr. John offered the Good Night to the members gathered.  But before the Good Night, some of the members surprised him with a song of gratitude for all he has done for them and for so many others who came before them.

Later, Fr. John presided over the gathering of the staff for the celebration of the end of the program year.  He expressed his gratitude and the gratitude of all the administration for all that the staff provided for the members during the year, especially the young ones who were most challenging.  Fr. John recalled his membership in the club at the age of seven.  He also recalled a recent Mass of Christian Burial that he celebrated for a man in his late 20s who had been a Club member and a staff member. Twenty-eight pall bearers lined the church for the funeral Mass, each carrying himself with great respect and dignity.  Fr. John recalled for the staff that the friendships formed at the Club could last them a lifetime.  The staff responded with gratitude for Fr. John’s friendship and guidance in their lives over the years.