x
Breaking News
More () »

Pastor of Lancaster church injured in fall

The pastor of a Lancaster church is in critical condition after suffering serious injuries in a fall this weekend. Father Michael E. Messner, Pastor of Sacred H...
FATHER MESSNER 1

The pastor of a Lancaster church is in critical condition after suffering serious injuries in a fall this weekend. Father Michael E. Messner, Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Lancaster was injured  in a fall at the parish rectory, according to a press release from the Harrisburg Diocese. Messner was discovered by a snow removal company between 3:30am and 4am Sunday, February 22. It is unknown exactly when he fell.

Father Messner was taken to Lancaster General Hospital where he was treated for his injuries. The church says he sustained head injuries and underwent an operation.  He is currently sedated and is listed in critical condition.

Daily Masses at Sacred Heart Church are canceled for this week. Masses scheduled for the weekend will be held.

Father Messner was born in May 1962 in Lykens, PA. He was ordained to the Priesthood for the Diocese of Harrisburg on June 6, 1998.  He was assigned as Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Lancaster on August 22, 2009.  In previous assignments Father Messner served at St. Francis Xavier, Gettysburg and Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Abbottstown, in addition to others.

The diocese says they are greatly saddened by this tragic accident and ask that people please pray for Messner’s speedy recovery.

Before You Leave, Check This Out