Catholic Diocese of Youngstown priest appointed to special work at Vatican
One priest working with the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown has been given the assignment of a lifetime to go to the Vatican.
Rev. Shawn Conoby, a member of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown since 2006, will leave on May 1 for a temporary assignment but will remain part of the Youngstown Catholic Diocese.
What will Rev. Shawn Conoby do at the Vatican?
Starting this summer, he’ll work with the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development.
It’s an extension of the Vatican established in 2016, focusing on progressing human rights issues afflicting migrants and other efforts. For example, the staff helps people suffering from drought in West African countries like Burkina Faso through the John Paul II Foundation for the Sahel area.
“Pastoral ministry to the most vulnerable has been a consistent focus throughout my life and ministry,” Conoby said. “My sharing in the priesthood of Jesus Christ has brought me many wonderful assignments and experiences. I look forward to serving God’s people and Christ’s church in this new way at the Dicastery.”
What does the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown think about Conoboy’s assignment?
According to Rev. David J. Bonnar, Father Conoboy will work for the section of the Dicastery, which interacts with local parishes worldwide to help identify their significant needs and support action plans to resolve various issues.
“Father Conoboy’s appointment is a great honor, not only for him but for the Diocese of Youngstown,” Bishop Bonnar said. “Father Conoboy has so many gifts as a priest and theologian. I am excited that he will use those gifts in his work with the Holy Father and the Dicastery’s staff, led by Cardinal Michael Czerny, Sister Alessandra Smerilli, and Father Fabio Baggio. Upon completing his duties, we will welcome him back with open arms.”
Father Conoboy serves as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Aurora, St. Joseph Parish in Mantua, and St. Ambrose Parish in Garrettsville.
Bishop Bonnar said there’s a plan to appoint Father Frantisek Katrinak as pastor of these parishes and St. Joan of Arc Parish in Streetsboro, starting in May.
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