Adorno Priests Embark on a New Journey at St. Mary, Mother of the Church Parish

In a momentous occasion that marked the intersection of faith, culture, and community, two Adorno Priests commenced their parish work at St. Mary, Mother of the Church Parish in Garner, North Carolina, on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. This significant step forward was made possible through the invitation of the Most Reverend Luis Rafael Zarama, the esteemed Bishop of Raleigh, NC, in the preceding year of 2022.

The vibrant parish of St. Mary, Mother of the Church, which is home to a diverse congregation, had been eagerly anticipating this new chapter in its spiritual journey. The arrival of Fr. Michael Marotta, CRM as the new Administrator and Fr. Boban Madathiparampil, CRM as the Parochial Vicar has infused a fresh sense of enthusiasm and devotion into the community. With open arms and open hearts, the parishioners welcomed these religious priests, whose mission is to guide, inspire, and nurture their spiritual growth.

One of the distinctive features of St. Mary’s Parish is its bilingual nature. With a congregation that encompasses both English and Spanish speakers, the parish has taken great care to ensure that all members of the community can fully participate in the life of the church. Both English and Spanish Masses are regularly conducted, reflecting the commitment of the parish to cater to the linguistic and cultural diversity of its members.

Fr. Michael Marotta, CRM, assumes the role of the Administrator, bringing with him a wealth of pastoral experience, spirituality and a deep understanding of the challenges and joys of parish life. His leadership is expected to provide a strong foundation for the growth and development of St. Mary’s Parish, fostering an environment of faith, compassion, and unity.

Complementing Fr. Michael’s leadership, Fr. Boban Madathiparampil has taken on the role of Parochial Vicar. His presence promises to enrich the spiritual tapestry of the parish through his unique insights and approach to ministry. He has over 10 years of experience in the parish ministry in Italy prior to coming to the USA. Together, these two priests are working in harmony to provide guidance, support, and spiritual nourishment to the 1436 registered parishioners of St. Mary’s Parish.

As the Adorno Priests delve into their new roles, they bring with them not only their individual gifts and talents but also the wisdom, charism and teachings of of the Order. The Adorno Fathers Spirituality, inspired by their Founders St. Francis Caracciolo, Augustine Adorno and Fabrizio Caracciolo, centers on the profound love for Jesus in the Eucharist and the preaching of divine love, being an apostle to the poor, the sick and sinners. Their spirituality and charism align seamlessly with the mission of St. Mary’s Parish expressed in their mission statement; “by the care and sanctification of all souls, the celebration of the sacraments, the evangelization of the Gospel, the promulgation of the Catholic Faith and the building up of the kingdom of God.  The source and summit of this divine mission is found in the Eucharist which gathers us in and sends us out to care for the least among us.”

In a world that is becoming increasingly diverse, the story of St. Mary, Mother of the Church Parish and its leadership with the Adorno Priests serves as a heartening example of the power of unity in diversity. Fr. Michael who was born and raised in Margate, New Jersey and Fr. Boban who was born and raised in Kerala, India spurs the harmonious coexistence of English and Spanish-speaking members that reflect the unifying force of faith, transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries.

We pray that as years unfold, the journey of St. Mary’s Parish with the Adorno Priests at the helm is sure to be one of inspiration, spiritual growth, and shared purpose all for the Greater Glory of the Risen Christ.