Highlights 2004-2014

2004 Mr. Michael Patterson was principal of Queen of Peace school when, in 2006 our very own and able Sister Patricia Healey took over the helm while all sisters occupying the convent were happily engaged in various programs benefiting the parish and school.

2008 Msgr. Matteo, our pastor entered St. Joseph’s Villa for rest and rehab while Father John Lyons became parochial Vicar until March 2009. When it became evident that Msgr. Matteo could not return as pastor, Father Michael David came to be parochial Vicar for the next two months.

2009 In June Father Lawrence Crehan, our present “Father Larry”, as he wished to be called, was installed as our new pastor. There were soon indications that he was up to the task. Eager and quick witted he had a vision and much like our founding Father Lynaugh, he listened to everyone, then did his own thing. Meanwhile, at the school several changes were initiated.

The Confraternity of Christian Doctrine religious program, we used to call CCD for many years became part of the Catholic Education Office with an appointed staff member to oversee those who ministered to parish children, not attending a Catholic school. The program came to be called Parish Religious Education Program. PREP In addition to overseeing PREP, the Director of Religious Education, DRE, is also responsible for the parish RCIA program as well as the vacation Bible Camp, one week in June for children 5 through 8. Other changes.

2010 St. John of the Cross and Queen of Peace school merged. Combined, these schools entered into a year of self study in conjunction with the office of Catholic Education to arrive at the decision for a school named Good Shepherd Catholic Regional School. The school year opened with 236 students in 11 classes Kindergarten through grade 8, a pre-K (3) and a Pre K(4) program.

2011 Msgr. James Matteo passed into his eternal rewards on April 1. Many priests who served in the parish through the years, filled the pews to overflowing to say good bye to a beloved pastor. His Eminence Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia was the main celebrant. The Reverend Victor J. Eshbach, close friend of Fr. Matteo was the homilist.

2012 The ensuing years with Father Larry, the parish rallied around his leadership. He has done much to foster a spirit of togetherness by asking his parishioners for ideas in organizing get-togethers, promoting fraternity as well as interesting fundraising opportunities.

2014 The last few months have been a busy and fun time for the parish in that many planned activities have already been enjoyed, culminating in and looking forward to our 60th. anniversary celebration on April 27.