At the Archdiocese of New York‘s central offices on Thursday, staff came together to mark the retirement of Monsignor Joseph LaMorte. 

After nearly eight years serving as vicar general, Monsignor LaMorte will officially retire on May 1, concluding a chapter of priestly leadership that left a lasting imprint on the archdiocese. 

Monsignor LaMorte talked about his time in the archdiocese’s central offices, first at 1011 First Ave., now at 488 Madison Ave., describing how he approached them not simply as a workplace, but as a community. 

“I kind of looked at the building as if it were a parish,” he said. “The things that I would have done as a priest in the parish, I sort of have done here… a way for me to get to know people and the good work that you do.” 

That perspective, he said, shaped how he carried out his responsibilities and built relationships across departments, always with a focus on serving the people of the archdiocese. 

“We’re all connected… with the focus of an important mission to help the people in the archdiocese,” Monsignor LaMorte added. 

A priest who listens 

During the farewell reception, Archbishop Hicks reflected on the qualities that defined Monsignor LaMorte’s ministry, describing him as a priest known for his pastoral approach, compassion, and attentiveness to others.

“He’s known as a priest who is pastoral, who is kind and who is compassionate… someone who actually listens and wants to be involved in other people’s lives and experiences,” Archbishop Hicks said. 

The role of vicar general is one of the most demanding in the life of a diocese, requiring both administrative leadership and spiritual guidance. Archbishop Hicks, who previously served as the vicar general of the Archdiocese of Chicago, acknowledged the weight of the position, noting that Monsignor LaMorte carried out the responsibility with faith and dedication each day. 

“Every day he’s woken up with great faith and hope and love in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and has given it his all,” he said. 

That commitment was evident to those who worked alongside him. Frank Napolitano, chief administrative officer of the archdiocese, pointed to Monsignor LaMorte’s steady leadership and constant support of his colleagues.

READ MORE: Monsignor Joseph LaMorte: Vicar General Was ‘a Good Last Job for a Parish Priest’

“He was always there to support everybody on our team… we are so grateful for his stewardship and leadership,” Napolitano said. 

For Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, executive director emeritus of Catholic Charities of New York, it was Monsignor LaMorte’s character that stood out most. 

“Just such a wonderful human being… very, very kind, very observant… someone who wants to help people to get their work done,” Sullivan said. “It has been a blessing for me to know him.” 

While stepping away from his role as Vicar General, Monsignor LaMorte made clear that his priestly ministry will continue. He will reside at the Saint John Vianney Clergy Residence in the Bronx, a home for retired priests of the archdiocese. 

“My intention really is to try to keep as active as possible… to make myself available… to say Mass in parishes,” he said. 

As Monsignor LaMorte begins this next chapter, those gathered at the farewell reception made clear that his legacy extends beyond leadership. It is rooted in faith, service, and the relationships he built along the way. 

For many in the archdiocese, his retirement is not simply a departure, but a moment to give thanks for a priest who has long been part of the family.