Father Nicholas Swiatek, OFM Conv. (WNYC File Photo)

Father Nicholas Swiatek, OFM Conv., will celebrate his 50th anniversary of ordination on Sunday, July 29 with a Mass of Thanksgiving at Resurrection Church in Cheektowaga at 2 p.m.

A native of Depew, Father Swiatek currently serves as superior missionary friar in Seto, Japan. He was ordained Dec. 21, 1968, at the St. Anthony Shrine in Ellicott City, Md. A staunch advocate for the Pro-Life Movement, Father Swiatek was awarded the Pro-Vita Award by Bishop Edward U. Kmiec. He served as pastor of the former Precious Blood Church in Buffalo, and parishes in Pennsylvania before resuming his missionary duties in Japan. He has ministered in Japan for over 25 years.

Father Swiatek was the first parishioner of Resurrection Church to be ordained a priest and he celebrated his first Mass there 1968.

A private reception will be hosted by Maria Garrity and Jeanette Hejna. Contact 716-207-1909 or hejnamc@yahoo.com for more information.