May 3, 2024

Students honor Msgr. Gosselin on 55th anniversary of his ordination

REGIONAL
Story and photo by Nick Morganelli

Msgr. Homer Gosselin holds some of the many handmade cards presented to him by St. John the Baptist School students in honor of the 55th anniversary of his priesthood.

LUDLOW – When Msgr. Homer Gosselin, pastor of St. Elizabeth Parish, here, celebrated Mass the first Friday in May, students from the adjacent St. John the Baptist School were in attendance. 

Msgr. Gosselin’s homily included teaching the students about Mary and Jesus, as well as inspiring them to follow the Lord as the way, truth, and life. At the end of Mass, he was pleasantly surprised to receive dozens of handmade cards from the students exactly 55 years to the day of his anniversary of ordination to the priesthood, May 3. The eighth-grade class performed a happy anniversary song to the melody of “Happy Birthday.”

“I was especially surprised, pleased and honored for them to sing ‘Happy Anniversary’ to me,” Msgr. Gosselin said.

He didn’t keep a record of every baptism, wedding or funeral he celebrated but says they are countless and that each sacrament is wonderful, especially when he presided over his own brother’s wedding. He responded to questions of how choosing the priesthood has enriched his life.

“He chooses us and it’s up to us to respond. Sometimes we think of the negative things we are giving up, like having a family, a spouse, but we gain so much more through the priesthood. We are welcomed into so many families,” he said.

“I remember when I was ordained and my rector asked, ‘What is your goal?’ I simply said, ‘My goal in life as a priest is to be a true friend to as many people as I can, because that’s what Jesus did. He responded to their needs and shared his love for them.’ It’s such a privilege to be the one that is able to do that for so many people,” he said.

Students had accolades for Msgr. Gosselin.

“He’s kind, sweet, caring, and funny, too, in the stories he tells,” said Abigail Wancko.

Miles Barrett also shared his thoughts, saying, “He’s very wonderful and teaches us a lot about God and the disciples. He’s caring and very nice.”

Those who would like to wish Msgr. Gosselin a happy anniversary can send a note to St. Elizabeth’s Rectory 181 Hubbard St. Ludlow, MA 01056. or email him at hpg1969@gmail.com

A video version of this story will be featured on a future edition of “Real to Reel,” which airs on Saturday evening at 7 on WWLP-22NEWS.