Bishop David Bonnar announces the following Clergy Assignments:
Clergy Assignments – Priests
Reverend Scott Kopp is appointed sacramental minister, on an as needed basis for the Portage Deanery, with residence at the Immaculate Conception Parish Rectory in Ravenna, effective October 1, 2025. The Portage Deanery includes Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Aurora; St. Ambrose Parish, Garrettsville; St. Patrick Parish and University Parish Newman Center, Kent; St. Joseph Parish, Mantua; St. John Neumann Parish (St. Joseph Church, Mogadore and St. Peter of the Fields Church, Rootstown); Immaculate Conception Parish, Ravenna: and St. Joan of Arc Parish, Streetsboro.
Very Reverend John-Michael Lavelle, D.Min., is appointed Curator of the Patrimony, effective September 12, 2025. This is in addition to his pastoral duties as pastor of St. Michael Parish, Canfield, and his diocesan responsibilities as Vicar of Missionary Discipleship, Director of Stewardship and Development and Director of Communications.
Reverend Christopher Luoni is relieved of his duties as sacramental minister of the Portage Deanery, effective October 1, 2025. He continues to provide Spiritual accompaniment for the Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration at Sancta Clara Monastery in Canton and to pursue a Spiritual Director Certification at Loyola University.
Reverend Benson Okpara is appointed administrator of Guardian Angels Parish, with worship sites at Saint Joan of Arc Church and Saint Joseph Church in Canton, effective September 22, 2025. This appointment is in addition to his pastoral duties at Saint Michael the Archangel Parish in Canton. In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, he is appointed Diocesan Director of Extern Priests. In collaboration with the Vicar for Clergy and Religious Services, the Director of Extern Priests will secure entrance and follow up documentation for priests entering the Diocese of Youngstown from other countries.
Reverend Richard Pentello is relieved of his duties as pro-tem administrator of Guardian Angels Parish, with worship sites at Saint Joan of Arc Church and Saint Joseph Church in Canton, effective September 22, 2025.
