Meet St. Francis of Assisi’s new pastor

Catholic Herald Staff Report

Franciscan Fr. Jim Scullion is the new pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Triangle. Courtesy

Fr_Scullion_3005_CRTSY_Cmr_WEB

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge (center left) celebrates the Mass of installation for Franciscan Fr. Jim Scullion (center) at St. Francis de Sales Church in Triangle Aug. 13. Courtesy

Fr_Scullion_3077_CRTSY_Cmr_WEB

Father Jim Scullion, OFM became pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Triangle July 23 after serving as parochial vicar for three years. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge celebrated Mass for the pastor’s installation Aug. 13.

In a letter to parishioners, Father Scullion wrote, “I am excited to have this opportunity to serve you. Our parish is a vibrant parish where I want everyone to feel welcome, young and old, babies calling out and children dancing in the aisle.”

“My primary duty as pastor is to preach, teach and lead in our liturgical celebrations. I will continue to offer Bible courses in the fall and spring,” he said. “I ask for your prayers, your faith and your honesty.”

Father Scullion was born Aug. 18, 1953, in Paterson, N.J., to James J. and Frances Scullion. He has one brother, Paul, and eight sisters, Mary, Anne, Maureen, Margaret, Kathy, Bernadette, Jane and Christine. He attended St. Joseph Regional High School in Montvale, N.J., and Siena College in Loudonville, N.Y., where he earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy.

Father Scullion attended Washington Theological Union from 1977 to 1980. He was ordained to the priesthood May 10, 1980.

Father Scullion has served as parochial vicar of St. Bonaventure Church in Paterson, N.J. (1980-82), St. Francis of Assisi Church in Beach Haven, N.J. (2008-12), and St. Francis of Assisi Church in Triangle (2020-23). He also served as pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Beach Haven (2014-20).

Related Articles