Monsignor Vin Rush

Pastor

The key actor in every disciple's life is the Holy Spirit.  The Spirit led me to my work as a priest and as pastor here, and my central task is to help every member of the parish to discover his or her Spirit-given gifts and to put them to work for the sake of the Gospel in family, workplace or school, and community.  Most of my time is spent in preaching and teaching the Word of God, in leading our shared prayer in the sacraments, and in preparing for those central tasks.  I'm also responsible for the coordination of the gifts of staff and parishioners so that we do God's work well.

.Reverend Eugenio "Eugene" Cagaanan Solero

Associate Pastor

Born in central (Bohol) Philippines.  Ordained priest April 17, 1986.  Served mostly his pastoral works in southern (Mindanao) Philippines.  Has served Our Lady of Grace as associate pastor since 2006.  Considered himself as one of the little streams that makes the river to water the fields.
As a fisherman before becoming a priest, he discovered his call in the silence (calm sea) of the ocean. That is why he loves mostly silence.
 

Reverend Gilbert "Gil" Lap
Associate Pastor

Gilbert D. Lap was born in the Bronx. When he was nine years old his family moved to Seaford, and he was enrolled in the Seaford Public Schools. Thoughts of the priesthood crossed his mind occasionally, but were never taken seriously. After his graduation from Seaford High School, he attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he earned his B.S. degree in mathematics. He continued his studies at Adelphi University, where he earned his M.S., also in math.

He began his career as a systems analyst with Grumman, and spent thirteen years as an analyst for LILCO.

He began taking philosophy classes at Stony Brook and St. John’s University and entered the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington in September of 1997.  He was ordained in 2003, and served in St. Barnabas Parish in Bellmore until his transfer to Our Lady of Grace.

Fr. Gil’s favorite form of prayer is reflective. He believes that everything directed to God is prayer but he enjoys sharing with God the events of the day – the people he’s met, the sorrows, and, of course, the many blessings.

Deacon William "Bill" Austin

Deacon Bill is part of the clerical staff of our parish.  Ordained a deacon on May 23, 1998 along with Deacon Francis Ramacca, who has since returned to the Father, Bill has served our parish in several ways through the years, including coordinating the RCIA and Another Look groups, leading Taize prayer around the Cross, serving as webmaster for the parish website, and other pastoral ministries.  Though active in his ministry, Bill is also employed full time as an engineer in the electronics industry.  Bill's family includes his wonderful wife, Barbara, five grown children and eight grandchildren.

Deacon Peter DiGiuseppe

After serving Our Lady of Grace parish for twenty-five years I worked at another parish in Nassau as a pastoral associate for three years. Returning home to Our Lady of Grace has been a delight for me. My ministry is supported by a community of faithful people who search for God along with me. This parish has taught me more about the spiritual journey than all the formal formation has. I look forward to meet old friends and make new ones.

Deacon Brian Miller

Sr. Alice McVey, ACSW

Director of Parish Social Ministry

Ms. Betty Duffy

Director of Parish Stewardship

Mr. Terence Purtell

Organist and Choirmaster

As a classically trained keyboardist, Terence’s hymn accompaniment is known for its dynamic contrast and rhythmic energy. As a conductor, he dances; as a singer, he has many voices. As a director whose purpose is to build community participation, he often sends personal invitations to choir functions and dreams of a day when faith will transcend politics. Terence’s specialties include sacred choral masterworks, genre crossovers, and large choir collaborations. Outside of Our Lady of Grace, he freelances and volunteers with numerous choruses in the NYC/LI area.

Ms. Cathy Marchese-Collins

Business Manager

Ms. Barbara McGrellis

Director of Faith Formation

At seventeen years old, I began my catechetical career sharing my faith and love for God with others. I have continued that calling to present day. After graduating from PFI in 1999, I applied to coordinate the First Holy Communion program here at Our Lady of Grace. Since that time my ministry has grown to include the Confirmation program. I love working with the parents and children of the parish, as God’s reciprocal grace helps us to grow in faith together.

Ms. Susan Martin

Director of Faith Formation