Fr. Marcin spent the last 4 years as the Parochial Vicar at St. Josaphat, Our Lady Help of Christians, Resurrection and Queen of Martyrs. All parishes in Cheektowaga, NY. Here are some interesting facts about our new Parochial Vicar!

Q: Fr. Marcin-does your name translate into English?

Fr. Marcin: In English it would be Martin, I was named for St. Martin of Tours. My last name is interesting because Porada means “advise”. Now there’s a name to live up to.

Q: And how old are you, if you don’t mind sharing of course…

Fr. Marcin: Oh sure-I’m 43, my Birthday is January 5, 1981. But in Poland we don’t really celebrate birthdays, we celebrate our name day which for me is November 11.

Q: We’ll keep going with some easy ones, where in Poland are you from?

Fr. Marcin: Buffalo’s sister city, Rzeszów the biggest city in southeastern Poland.

Q: Do you still have family there?

Fr. Marcin: Yes! My Mom and Dad, Grażyna and Jan. I also have a younger sister who is married. She has two daughters.

Q: You were ordained in Poland correct? How long have you been a priest?

Fr. Marcin:  I was ordained in Rzeszów on May 10, 2008, so over 16 years.

Q: How long have you been in the USA?

Fr. Marcin:  In November this year will be my anniversary, 10 years. I remember I came right before the big storm in November of 2014.

Q: What has been your favorite thing about living in the USA?

Fr. Marcin:  The people here are kind and generous. In Buffalo I never feel like a stranger, it is very comfortable. I have learned a lot about my Faith by listening to the different people, old and young, who I have met in my ministry. I am also very grateful to have met other Priests from Poland who have been supportive.

Q: What do you miss about Poland?

Fr. Marcin:  My parents, and my friends. I am very grateful to do ministry here in Buffalo, but my heart aches from time to time.

Q: How about hobbies? Anything you do for fun?

Fr. Marcin:  I go to the gym almost every day; I am committed to being healthy and active. I also love cinema and music.

Q: Alright Father, let’s dig a little deeper. What are some of your goals or visions for our Parishes community?

Fr. Marcin:   I became a priest to work closely with people. I want to be your companion on the journey. Faith is as much about the path as it is the destination. I am here to be a counselor, confessors, consoler, and friend. As Christ loves me, so I wish to love my people, and together we can build a thriving community of believers.

Q: Anything else you’d like parishioners to know?

Fr. Marcin: You know, to please be patient as I get to know everyone and the traditions of these Parishes. We are a team and a community and we need to work together in order to grow and stay faithful in Jesus Christ. I am happy to be here and I am grateful to minister to you all.