Archbishop Prendergast Celebrates Slovak Mass


Archbishop Prendergast of Ottawa reveals ties with Slovak community

His Grace Terence Prendergast, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Ottawa, was the first clergyman of his high rank ever to officiate at a Slovak Mass in Ottawa. He gladly accepted the invitation of Ottawa parish priest Father Radoslav Lojan to celebrate Mass, which was both in English, Latin, and in Slovak.

The Archbishop told the worshippers who packed St. Hyacinth Polish Roman Catholic Church on January 17, 2010 that he intends to have close relations with all Catholics - and Christians - of all nations. However, his relations with the Slovak community are more extensive than any of us had imagined. As a Jesuit he visited Slovakia and was involved in the settlement of Slovak priests in Canada such as St. Cyril and Methodius Church in Mississauga, Ontario. He recalled with fondness his meetings and tours in Bratislava, Banska Bystrica, Poprad, Kosice and other areas.

After Mass at the social gathering in the parish hall, His Grace spent a great deal of time talking with members of the Ottawa Slovak community.

Jan George Frajkor, Ottawa

Photos: Jan George Frajkor
Therese Ozorak