Fr. Christopher J. Papa

   I was born in 1962 and raised in Broomall, Delaware County.  I attended Saint Pius X Church and grade school  (Yes, the same parish as Fr. Kazanjian), Cardinal O’Hara High School, and graduated from St. Joseph’s University in 1984 with dual degrees in Marketing and Management.  (I guess, in a way, I am still using those marketing skills.)  I entered Saint Charles Seminary in 1984 and was ordained to the priesthood May 20, 1989.  My assignments over the years have included Saint Frances Cabrini Church in Fairless Hills, Saint Monica’s in South Philadelphia, Saint Gabriel in Norwood and the last six years at Saint Agnes Church in West Chester.  (Actually each of the parishes cover  4 of the 5 counties in the Archdiocese so it is only logical now that they have sent me to Montgomery County.)  Now as informative as the above may be, it does not necessarily reveal much about me.  So maybe the following will provide some more insight.

      Although my parents used to take us to the shore for vacation (when my brother, sister and I were very young), I have always been partial to the beauty of the mountains.  I enjoy hunting, swimming, fishing and the peace and tranquility of the outdoors.  (So much so that I should probably buy stock in Cabela’s.)

      I also enjoy traveling, especially to the nations from which my ancestors came.  Actually my favorite destination has always been Ireland.  It is a magnificent and beautiful country whose people are always a delight.  Their wit, stories, history and culture certainly intrigue me.  I have been there on a number of occasions and return every chance I get.  (That may sound strange considering my Italian surname but my mother is a red-headed Fitzgerald.)

      Finally, I enjoy people and I enjoy a good laugh.  One of the most wonderful aspects about the priesthood is the realization that God has blessed me so abundantly in my various assignments through a variety of individuals who have become true, long-time and steadfast friends.  One may only have the opportunity to see such friends a few times a year but those occasions are genuinely special and generally filled with great laughter.

      As things go, this short essay should provide something of an introduction revealing a few things about me.  I look forward to meeting more and more of the members of Saint Alphonsus and once again thank you for your warm welcome.