I was saddened to learn of the unexpected death of Bishop Joseph Cistone of the Diocese of Saginaw earlier today.
Bishop Cistone was a native Philadelphian. Our local Church, which he served for many years as a faithful priest and auxiliary bishop, was always close to his heart. I am grateful for the opportunities I had to spend time in conversation with him during his trips home and at the regular gatherings of bishops from across the country each year.
Bishop Cistone’s love for his vocation was evident throughout his 34 years of priesthood in Philadelphia. During that time, he worked diligently to promote vocations and advance the mission of the Church through service in the Chancery. At the same time, he remained committed to providing pastoral care to souls throughout the Archdiocese at the many parishes where he resided. He carried his joy for the priesthood as well as his administrative experience with him when he was named the Bishop of Saginaw in 2009.
As all of us here in Philadelphia mourn the loss of Bishop Cistone, I extend the prayerful condolences of the Church in Philadelphia to his family and many friends as well as the priests, religious, and lay faithful of the Diocese of Saginaw.
May God grant Bishop Cistone the gift of eternal life, and give peace and consolation to all those who loved, admired, and respected him.
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Editor’s Note: For additional information on the life of Bishop Cistone as well as pending funeral arrangements, please visit the official website of the Diocese of Saginaw at www.saginaw.org.
Contact:Contact: Kenneth A. Gavin
Chief Communications Officer
215-587-3747 (office)