Anthony Amato is a seminarian for the Diocese of Rochester (NY) studying for the priesthood and currently assigned to St. Matthew’s. He was ordained a Transitional Deacon at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Rochester on Saturday, May 28 at 10:00am by the Most Rev. Salvatore R. Matano, Bishop of Rochester. Anthony is completing his theology studies at the Catholic University of America and plans to complete his Licentiate of Sacred Theology in Systematic Theology by May 2017. At St. Matthew’s, he has been involved with social justice efforts, marriage preparation, Bible study, and in various capacities as a liturgical minister.

Anthony was born and raised in Rochester, NY, attending Catholic schools through high school, along with his three brothers, until he went to the University of Rochester as an undergraduate. There he began a major in Computer Science, but went on to complete a double major in both Philosophy and Religious Studies. He then attended the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry to begin his Master of Theological Studies, intending to eventually earn the doctorate and become a professor of theology. While in Boston, he could no longer resist God’s call to the priesthood, and upon graduating from Boston College in May 2011, he began formation for the priesthood back home in Rochester. The Diocese of Rochester then sent him, beginning August 2012, to study theology at the Catholic University of America.

He has enjoyed his time so far at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle and has appreciated so many welcoming people who have helped him become acquainted with the parish. He certainly looks forward to serving as a Deacon in the parish next Fall and preaching for the people.

Let us keep Anthony in our prayers as he continues his formation for the priesthood!