As announced by Archbishop Nelson J. Perez, effective June 15, 2026, Rev. Eric J. Banecker has appointed Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
Building on a legacy of faithful witness to the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Church, our parish has continued to blossom as a place of worship, genuine welcome, and joyful encounter. Father Eric’s devotion to Christ and care for each person have helped further build a vibrant parish culture deeply rooted in the person of Christ, and in service to Him, the Church and each other.
From reverent liturgies to expanding ministries, with special emphasis for families with young children on the first Friday of each month, and from moments of shared prayer and adult faith formation, including bible studies for people of various ages, there is a sense that something beautiful is unfolding here in our growing parish.
This vitality has not come from grand gestures, but from steady faithfulness—a shepherd walking closely with his people and leading us toward deeper hope and trust in Jesus Christ.
Our pastor’s approach has been marked by humility. He listens before he speaks, serves before he leads, and continually points us back to Christ, inviting us to experience the fullness of life, especially through the sacraments. In both his homilies and his presence, he reminds us that the Church is not merely a place we attend, but a family to which we belong, called to go forth and share the peace of Christ.
Father Eric’s new role brings a native son of South Philadelphia back to the city, where he will live while serving in a role that covers the entire Archdiocese. While we strived to show him many of the best aspects of Delaware County, this appointment reflects the qualities we have come to cherish—faithfulness and a generous willingness to serve.
With faith, hope and love, we look ahead. The same Holy Spirit who has guided our parish since 1963 will continue to lead us, preparing the way for a new pastor. We give thanks to God, for our community, for our growth and for the shepherd who has walked with us these past two years. Be assured of our prayers, Father Eric.
Rev. Mr. Bob Szipszky
Publisher’s Note: In gratitude for the humble past years of service of Father Eric Banecker, I
asked Rev. Mr. Bob Szipszky, a parishioner and member of the St. Mary Magdalen Parish clergy
team, to share his thoughts and best wishes on behalf of the parish community as their pastor,
Father Eric, departs for his wider role of service in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Readers
will recall Bob and his wife Patty Szipszky were the Resident feature of our August 2024 issue,
also online at TheNEmag.com