The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary usually takes on special significance at St. Mary Church in Mokena, which is under her patronage. This year’s feast day on August 15, 2025, was even more special as Bishop Ronald Hicks arrived to officially install Fr. Jose Gasta as the new pastor.
A packed church greeted Bishop Hicks, Fr. Jose, Fr. Joel Ricafranca, and five other visiting priests, including former pastor Fr. Dindo Billote. The Knights of Columbus accompanied the bishop, priests, deacons, and parish acolytes as they ceremoniously processed into the church to “Hail, Queen of Heaven, the Ocean Star.”
The choir, led by Joseph Berardi, sang triumphantly throughout the entire Mass to honor the Blessed Mother and acknowledge the historical installation. Berardi composed a special Responsorial Psalm, “The Queen Stands at Your Right Hand,” for the occasion.
“I encourage you to look for ways to collaborate with your new pastor, [and] with his associate Fr. Joel..look for ways of supporting them, and most importantly, please pray for them,” said Bishop Hicks during his homily.
The bishop installed Fr. Jose during a special prayer preceding the Liturgy of the Eucharist. During the prayer, he also acknowledged the parish leaders and the community for their support. After making his commitments to the parish, the bishop, and God, Fr. Jose officially became pastor.
Following the Liturgy of the Eucharist, Fr. Jose hearkened to tradition by laying flowers at the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary as the choir sang “Salve Regina.” He then delivered an installation address thanking all who have supported him and reiterated his oath of fidelity.
“As I stand here tonight, my heart is overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Father Jose. “I promise to do my best to serve this parish faithfully. I know I still have so much to learn, but with God’s help, and with your guidance, I will give my heart wholly to this mission…You are family now, I love you, and I mean that.”
After Mass, all were invited to a celebratory reception in the Parish Hall, organized by the St. Mary Council of Catholic Women. Sandwiches, desserts, and other refreshments were served as the people of St. Mary took the opportunity to personally congratulate their new pastor in droves.
Congratulations to Father Jose for humbly accepting the assignment of Pastor of St. Mary Church!
The Mokena Marian 