SHELTON—Our priests and pastors are with us at life’s most memorable, inspiring and challenging moments and we keep them in our thoughts, prayers and hearts throughout the years. It was no exception on Saturday, September 15 to honor and celebrate Fr. Philip Brady’s 100th birthday.
An entourage of former and present parishioners of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Shelton where Fr. Brady, was pastor, including other parishes in the Diocese of Bridgeport, traveled to Orchard Park, New York, a suburb of Buffalo, to attend his milestone birthday party.
Parishioners were delighted to make the trip and spoke of the compassion, care and friendship they received over the years from Father Brady who retired to his native Buffalo. 115 Guests traveled from California, Vermont, Connecticut and the local area to celebrate the centennial event.
He hears confessions and says Mass every day at the senior home where he lives and he surprised guests as he sang his rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “Summer Wind” and “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” at the Saturday event.
Maryellen and Richard Kosturko from Shelton shared thoughts with others on how they received their first Holy Communion/Penance, Confirmation and Holy Matrimony from Fr. Brady. Maryellen’s mother, Mickey Hope and Richard’s father, John Kosturko also attended, John was Father’s first Eucharistic minister. Stories shared of assisting Fr. Brady and helping out at the parish were non-stop during the event.
It was a wonderful time to celebrate and to honor a pastor who has meant so much to so many, sharing the Gospel and the message of Christ.
