Rev. Gerry Lococo
As a young woman formed by her Catholic upbringing and education, Gerry began to realize a desire to serve others. After her poverty-law paralegal advocacy during the 1970s, she obtained a social work degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1980. Gerry then combined a medical social work practice with a parish-based social ministry for over 35 years.
In 2015 Gerry became a member of the Sunday’s Bread Community. She simply states, “the fresh air of the Spirit moves in funny ways!” Since 2016, Gerry has served this inclusive community as liturgical leader with the support of her husband, Gerard. Ordained as a Deacon in June, 2018 by Bishop Mary Eileen Collingwood of the Association of Roman Catholic Women Priests (ARCWP), Gerry continued her formation and course of study toward priestly ordination through the ARCWP and The People’s Catholic Seminary. In the presence of family and friends, Gerry was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Mary Eileen on October 21, 2021. (See www.ARCWP.org)
“Gerry is a soft spoken, joyful woman. While acting as presider, she is the embodiment of a Spirit filled facilitator. Gerry, in every way, demands we grow along with her in the daily search for the divine. No one is left behind!”
“I call Gerry ‘the welcomer’ because she is so open and accepting. Kind of like a warm fireplace on a really cold day. She has the gift of creating a safe place where everyone can share their stories and listen to each other so that we all can grow.”
“Gerry loves an adventure. She is brave, like just jumping out of a plane in a parachute, swimming with the Polar Bears in the river on New Year’s Day, or heading into the woods with her husband. She has that kind of spirit, in really searching for true Christianity. Gerry has developed a wonderful sense of confidence. She is very inspiring in her actions.”
MULTIPLE CONGREGANTS
Reflecting the spirit of the early church, congregants will occasionally step in and lead the liturgy when Rev. Gerry – “Gerry” -- is away.
Mary Eileen Collingwood
In addition, once or twice a year the congregation is visited by Bishop Mary Eileen Collingwood (ARCWP) -- "Mary Eileen" -- who hails from the Community of St. Bridget, Brecksville, Ohio. This photo is from her June, 2017 visit.
October 20, 2019, Mary Eileen and several Brecksville congregants visited Sunday's Bread here in Pittsburgh. It is always refreshing to be among these kindred spirits.
October 21, 2021, Mary Eileen served as presider for the priestly ordination rite of Rev. Gerry Lococo, with joyful participation of members and friends of the Sunday's Bread Community.