Diocese of Erie to celebrate Installation Masses for new pastors

By Allison Mosier

09/23/2025

This fall, the Diocese of Erie will celebrate three Installation Masses for priests newly appointed as pastors, marking a significant milestone in their priestly ministry. Installation Masses are moments of joy and prayer for the entire diocesan family, as Bishop Lawrence Persico formally installs priests into their pastoral roles. These liturgies not only honor the commitment of each priest but also invite the faithful to pray for them as they guide, shepherd and serve the people of God entrusted to their care.

During an Installation Mass, a priest is entrusted with the responsibility of leading his parish community in faith, worship and service. It is a sacred moment that affirms the priest’s call to shepherd a parish family, preaching the Gospel, celebrating the sacraments, evangelizing and ministering to the spiritual and pastoral needs of parishioners. The rite reminds both the priest and the faithful that the pastor is not only a leader but also a servant, called to guide with humility, wisdom and love.

This year, three priests will be installed as pastors:

Sunday, September 28, 10:30 a.m. – St. Boniface Church, Kersey
Reverend Christopher A. Beran will be installed as Pastor of St. Boniface Parish, Kersey. He also serves as part-time Campus Minister at the Elk County Catholic School System.
Saturday, October 11, 6:00 p.m. – St. Francis Xavier Church, McKean
Reverend Benjamin J. Daghir will be installed as Pastor of St. Francis Xavier Parish, McKean, while also serving as Chaplain of Cathedral Preparatory School, Erie.
Saturday, October 25, 5:00 p.m. – St. Lawrence the Martyr Church, Albion
Reverend Michael T. Kesicki will be installed as Pastor of St. Lawrence the Martyr Parish, Albion, with its secondary mission church of St. Philip, Crossingville. In addition, he will serve in chaplaincy ministry at State Correctional Institution-Albion, while continuing as Chaplain of Gannon University.

Each of these priests brings a unique background, experience and pastoral heart to their new communities. As they begin this important chapter, they are called to be faithful shepherds, to lead their people in prayer, celebrate the Eucharist, anoint the sick, guide families in times of both joy and sorrow and be witnesses of Christ’s love to all they encounter.

The Diocese of Erie invites all parishioners and friends of these faith communities to join in prayerful support of these new pastors. As Bishop Persico installs them, may the Holy Spirit strengthen their ministry and grant them wisdom and courage to guide their flock. Together, let us pray for their continued zeal and for all priests who faithfully serve across our 13 counties, bringing Christ’s presence into every corner of our diocese.