Well-wishers turn out for Father Fiala, transferred to Rome

August 2, 2016 at 9:51p.m.

YOUNGSTOWN

If you ask Bob Burosky what he will miss the most about Father Vit Fiala, he will probably tell you that it’s the friar’s sincerity and keen ability to connect with his congregation.

“He’s my spiritual leader,” the Youngstown man said of Father Fiala, who is preparing to leave his post at the Shrine of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Church after having been transferred to Rome. “He never reads his homilies from notes; he always reads from his heart.”

Burosky was among close to 200 people who attended a rosary cenacle and farewell reception Tuesday for Father Fiala, both of which were at the church, 517 S. Belle Vista Ave., on the West Side.

Burosky, who joined the church about 10 years ago, added that the friar also is a dear friend.

Father Fiala, who has served 16 years at Shrine of Our Lady Church, is scheduled to leave for Rome on Aug. 15 and, starting in September, will serve as Master of Friars, he explained. His duties will include mentoring new student friars in compassionate ministries from the U.S., Malta and Ireland who are studying theology, he continued.