The church was crowded with visitors and parishioners all coming to wish Father John Milanese well as he begins the next phase of his ministry, as a retired priest. There were children there whose only priest they have known their entire lives is Father John. Out-of-state and summer parishioners attended and paid their respects.
We're in the news! This week's edition of the Randolph Herald has a lengthy article about Father Gratton's new role as a 'mission' pastor for 3 churches in the area, and a lovely bit about Father John's retirement.
Effective Monday, Sept. 9th, Reverend Father Scott Gratton commences his duties as pastor of Our Lady of the Angels Church and Our Lady of the Valley Parishes. Father Gratton will also serve as Army Chaplain at Norwich University in Northfield, VT.
Parishioners joined Father John Milanese and Bishop Christopher Coyne, in the ceremonial burning of the mortgage for Our Lady of the Angels Church, which was paid off after only 81/2 years. The event was held after Mass on August 21, 2016.