The Apostolic Johannite Church and the Archdiocese of Wisconsin announce the retirement of the Very Rev. Fr. John DiGilio from active ministry with the Apostolic Johannite Church.
Ordained to the Diaconate at Conclave in Chicago in 2013, and the Priesthood at Conclave 2016 in Boston, MA, Father John served in a diverse set of roles across both the Diaconate and Priesthood, to which he brought capability, compassion and wisdom- most notably in parish leadership in Chicago and Los Angeles, as Chief of Staff to the Primate of the United States, Treasurer of the AJC and member of the Apostolic Council.
He was also a driving force behind a series of wonderful Conclaves organized in Chicago, Illinois, which remain among the most well attended and memorable.
This new leg of his journey as both member and leader, is prompted by the necessity of increasing work, family and health challenges.
Fr. John remains a treasured voice of wisdom, fraternity and service with the AJC, and in accordance with those who retire from active service in good standing, will be able to administer the sacraments and pastoral care to those around him with consultation and dispensation from the Hierarchy. He will also continue to assist the Hierarchy of the Apostolic Johannite Church with projects, review and education.
Owing to the challenge of the Coronavirus pandemic most significantly, the Parish of St. Joachim of Fiore in Los Angeles, California, was on hiatus and in plans for a relaunch, and these plans will continue as a result of consultation with local laity and upcoming leaders.
On behalf of a grateful Church, and with particular gratitude personally for his efforts, we offer our thanks for his ministry and presence.
+ IOHANNES IV
Sovereign Pontiff and Patriarch