Posted August 26, 2021

The parish for Latino Catholics in Avondale, southern Chester County threw their anniversary celebration Aug. 16 begun with an evening Mass led by Archbishop Nelson Perez and joined by Auxiliary Bishop Edward Deliman; Msgr. Francis Depman, founding pastor; Father Andres Garcia, parochial vicar; and other clergy from the region. After Mass the congregation took part in an outdoor liturgical procession. One of the youngest parishes in the Philadelphia Archdiocese, St. Rocco’s was founded in 2010 and its church dedicated in 2011. It is located at 333 Sunny Dell Road, Avondale. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

  • Worshipers participate in Mass on the plaza outside the packed St. Rocco Church.

  • A sign expresses gratitude for the ministry at St. Rocco’s by Msgr. Frank Depman, pastor, and Father Andres Garcia, parochial vicar.

  • Msgr. Frank Depman, pastor of St. Rocco Parish, distributes holy Communion.

  • Sisters of the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara receive holy Communion during Mass.

  • Joining a procession outside St. Rocco Church after Mass were clergy including (from left) Msgr. Frank Depman, Father Scott Brockson, Father Andres Garcia, Archbishop Nelson Perez and Bishop Edward Deliman.

  • Bishop Edward Deliman (center) prays a blessing as Msgr. Frank Depman (left) and Archbishop Nelson Perez look on.

  • A mariachi band sets the tone of joyful festivity as people gather in St. Rocco Church before Mass.

  • Msgr. Frank Depman speaks to his beloved parishioners beside a portrait of the parish’s patron saint.