Father Kamil Kiszka likened serving in Alaska to a priceless two-year retreat, during which he came away more peaceful and balanced. Father Kiszka returns to the podcast to talk about this unique full-time missionary experience in the Land of the Midnight Sun and what might be next for him. The conversation is moved along by Father Kiszka's collection of photographs from Alaska. (Watch the video version of the podcast to see the photographs.)

Host Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney reflects on our call to be missionary disciples wherever we are. 

Bishop Sweeney also reflects on the life of Father Rafael Ciro, who took his life one year ago, and a Memorial Mass scheduled the day this episode was recorded. He also mentions the feast days of St. Monica (Aug. 27) and her son St. Augustine (Aug. 28). 

Bishop Sweeney shares a few book recommendations as well!

Cohosted by Communications Director Jai Agnish.

Show notes:
Mission priest inspired, in love with service in Alaska
Diocese sends love in packages to Alaska missionary priest
Podcast: Mission priest shares his love for serving in Alaska
Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney: Remembering with gratitude the life and ministry of Father Rafael A. Ciro

Email questions and podcast topic ideas to Bishop Kevin at beyond@patersondiocese.org.

Produced by Jai Agnish, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, and Father Kamil Kiszka for the Diocese of Paterson. Alaska photographs provided by Father Kamil Kiszka. Engineered, edited, and theme song by Jai Agnish. Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.

Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook. Bishop Kevin on Instagram. The Diocese of Paterson on Instagram,  Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).

Every three years, each Diocese in the USA has the graced opportunity to make a scheduled pilgrimage as one Diocesan family with their Bishop to the National Shrine in the nation's capital. 2026 is once again "our year!" Please note the two-day and one-day options: Oct. 16, Friday, and Oct. 17, Saturday. Visit the Diocese of Paterson website here to learn more!

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