October 11, 2007

Reverend Louis F. Vallone
Saint John of God Parish
1011 Church Avenue
McKees Rocks, PA 15136

Dear Father Vallone:

Following consultation with the Diocesan Clergy Personnel Board, and in accord with Canon 523 of the Code of Canon Law, I am pleased to appoint you Pastor of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish, Crescent, for a term of six (6) years. This assignment becomes effective immediately.

Thank you for all the leadership you displayed at Saint Catherine of Siena Parish. As you continue to serve the people of the Crescent area, I know that you will assist them to grow in holiness and to work for the building up of God's Kingdom in the Church of Pittsburgh. I also ask that you give special attention to promoting and praying for vocations to the priesthood and religious life in our Diocese.

Canon 833 calls for priests to take a Profession of Faith and an Oath of Fidelity. Soon I will be coming to Saint Catherine of Siena Parish and you will have the opportunity publicly to manifest your Profession of Faith and Oath of Fidelity within the Mass.

As you accept this appointment, I am confident that the people of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish will continue to appreciate you as their shepherd.

Grateful for our belief that "Nothing is impossible with God," I am

Your brother in Christ,

Most Reverend David A. Zubik
Bishop of Pittsburgh

The fact that I have been named Pastor of St. Catherine's (from Administrator) will have no effect on my being your Pastor at St. John of God. Nothing will change. I will continue pastoring to two parishes as I have been doing since being named administrator at St. Catherine's last December 11, 2006.