Monsignor Peter Zendzian, Pastor of St. Matthias Church in Ridgewood, New York died suddenly at the age of 63 on Friday, October 23, 2015 and now rests among the company of Angels and Saints in the eternal Kingdom of God. He was born in Maspeth, NY, where he later served as pastor of Holy Cross Church. Msgr. Zendzian was active in migration ministries, a prominent figure in the Polish American community and well known for his linguistic skills being fluent in several languages.
He served the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York for many years and worked in the Chancery Office. Then he moved to Washington, DC and worked at the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops. (USCCB) together with Msgr. Anthony Czarnecki. He served as President go the Polish American Priests Association (P.A.P.A.) and was a member of the National Polish Apostolate Committee of over twenty five years. He was well known of his friendly attitude, enthusiasm and dedication to his Polish American heritage. He earned our gratitude and respect on his many achievements for what he accomplished and also who he was as a person.
It appears to be a general consensus among his friends, especially the Polish American Apostolate Committee members to remember him through works of charity. After discussing several options, we decided to fund a special project for children for whom he had a special affinity and love. Since he often visited St. Joseph School in Webster, we chose to install a new security system for the safety of the children. Tis entails placing cameras inside and outside the school with automatic devices on doors. The estimated cost is $10,000.
Once we accomplish this goal, we will notify Msgr. Peter’s sister with a list of the donors’ names. This will be a source of consolation and encouragement for her in this difficult time.
I would like to contribute $___________ in memory of Rev. Msgr. Peter Zendzian
Name _______________________________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________________________________
Email ______________________________________ Phone ___________________________
Please make checks payable to:
St. Joseph School, Msgr. Peter Memorial
53 Whitcomb Street, Webster, MA 01570
