Golden Anniversary of service: Honoring Father Glenn Whitman
By Allison Mosier09/16/2025
The parish community of Good Shepherd Parish in West Middlesex gathered with joy and gratitude to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ordination of Father Glenn Whitman, marking five decades of devoted service to the Diocese of Erie. The event brought together family, friends, parishioners and fellow clergy to honor not only the longevity of his priesthood, but also the enduring spirit with which he has carried out his vocation.
From the beginning of his ministry, Father Whitman was shaped by the vision of the Second Vatican Council. Its call for collaboration, shared leadership and active lay participation became hallmarks of his work across parishes, schools, social services and diocesan offices. Rather than taking a solitary approach, he consistently opened doors for the laity to share their gifts. His encouragement inspired many parishioners to step into leadership roles in religious education, liturgy and parish life, creating a living example of the council’s invitation to a more engaged church.
The celebration reflected his passion for liturgy, especially music. Over the years, Father Whitman found great fulfillment in supporting parish music programs in Girard, Sharon and Erie. His belief that a singing congregation is a living congregation guided his approach: worship, he said, becomes transformative when the community prays through song. Those who gathered for the anniversary Mass experienced the same spirit of vibrant, active participation that has defined his ministry.
His priesthood has also been sustained by quiet strength drawn from fraternity. For more than 30 years, Father Whitman has been a member of a Jesus Caritas support group with Msgr. Gerald Koos, Father Jerry Simmons and other brother priests. Their monthly gatherings of prayer, reflection and fellowship became a lifeline, nurturing his spiritual life and offering stability through the changing seasons of ministry. He credits this circle of friends with helping him remain faithful and grounded in his vocation.
At the anniversary celebration, parishioners and colleagues shared stories that illustrated the breadth of his impact. Former choir members spoke of his encouragement to pursue excellence in music. Lay leaders remembered the confidence he placed in them to shape parish programs. Fellow clergy expressed gratitude for his steady friendship and generous spirit. Each story carried a common thread: Father Whitman’s ministry has always been less about himself and more about lifting others into leadership and drawing them closer to Christ.
Now, at the milestone of 50 years, Father Whitman looks back with gratitude but also forward with hope. He remains committed to the mission of the church, energized by faith and the bonds of community. His journey stands as a witness that priesthood is not measured simply in years, but in lives touched, communities strengthened and the Gospel proclaimed through both word and action.
The golden anniversary of Father Glenn Whitman was not just a celebration of the past, but a reminder of what it means to live a vocation with joy, humility and perseverance. As his parish family honored him, they also glimpsed the enduring promise of a church made stronger through collaboration, faith and the gift of song.
To view photos from the event, please visit the Church of the Good Shepherd’s Facebook page here.
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