By Liz Nolan, Contributing Writer
Photo/Theresa Fugardi
Northborough – St. Rose of Lima Pastor Rev. James A. Houston celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination May 6 with a church full of his family, friends and parishioners, including Bishop of the Diocese of Worcester Robert McManus and former Bishop Daniel Reilly. The celebration of Mass was filled with music and was followed by a luncheon.
Originally from New Jersey, Houston was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Worcester in May 1968. Since then, he was appointed associate pastor at several area churches, was the full-time campus minister at Fitchburg State College, and in June 1990 was appointed pastor at St. Rose of Lima.
While still in high school, he worked in a hospital, where he believes his ministry of service began.
During his first year of college he began thinking of the priesthood, and after his first year in the seminary realized that was his calling.
“The culture was very different then when telling your friends that you were going to be a priest,” said Houston. “They were affirming.”
Today, the number of men choosing to be priests is low.
“I was ordained with 32 priests,” he said. “Now two to three are ordained each year in Worcester.”
His work is a source of joy.
“The most satisfaction I feel in life is from the work I do,” Houston said. “I could retire, but like to stay active and will continue as pastor as long as it works. If I were to retire, I would continue to help where I can and do good where I see a need.”
He has been able to enjoy his love for ships and travel as part of his ministry. He serves as chaplain on board the Maritime winter training cruise for two to three weeks each year.
After Easter, he travelled to Rome and was able to obtain tickets to be a part of Pope Francis’s Wednesday morning audience and speak with the Pope.
“The Pope is admired so much,” Houston said. “He was smiling and took time with everybody. We spoke and I asked him to pray for our parish.”
Reflecting on his years at St. Rose, he noted his biggest accomplishments have been renovating the church and its stewardship. Over the past 25 years, $1.2 million has been donated to charities and causes.
Houston is also proud of his commitment to church youth.
“The teenage years are challenging,” he said. “They need what the church can offer – God’s partnership in life. We offer them a place where they use their gifts and talents. The future of the church is with them.”
Houston noted that St. Rose is often considered the community church.
“We welcome everyone and try to set barriers and walls aside,” he said. “Here we are one family, under one roof and are accepting of one another. It’s hard to imagine my being at any other parish.”
