Father James O'Connor

Father James O'Connor has been a source of peace, strength and love to parishioners for 44 years. His smile conveys a joy of lifelong service to God and others.

Father O'Connor will step down from daily ministry on Sunday, Feb. 15, and into retirement after 44 years of faithful service as a priest in the diocese by celebrating a Mass at St Pius X in Getzville at noon.

Father O'Connor was the oldest of five children born to Florence (Hauser) and James O'Connor. He grew up in Lancaster and his family was active at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish.

In 1962, he attended the Diocesan Preparatory Seminary where he graduated in 1963. In 1965, he attended St. John Vianney Seminary where he completed his last two years of college and four years of theology. He was ordained a priest on May 29, 1971.

During the past 44 years, Father O'Connor has served as associate pastor at St. Columba, Holy Spirit, and Nativity of Our Lord parishes. He has served as pastor at St. Columba, St.
Joseph in Fredonia, SS. Peter & Paul in Williamsville, Immaculate Conception in Ransomville and St. Pius X in Getzville.

He is a member of Jesus Caritas Fraternity for Priests; chaplain for married couples for Teams of Our Lady; fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus and chaplain of the Trinity Council Knights of Columbus and member of Knights of St. John. He has worked on many Cursillo retreats and served on the Presbyteral Council representing the Eastern Niagara vicariate.