There were memories made and memories recalled on Sunday as the Rev. Francis P. Straka, pastor at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Roman Catholic Church, Northampton, observed the 25th anniversary of his ordination into the priesthood.

The special day began with a Silver Jubilee Mass of Thanksgiving at 3 p.m. at the church, 22nd Street and Washington Avenue. Members packed the pews as a procession of more than 40 priests and monsignors, led by the Most Rev. Ronald W. Gainer, D.D., Bishop of Harrisburg, entered the church. Several nuns, who taught some years back when the church had an elementary school, were present.

Gainer was the homilist and noted the church's rich history and Straka's contribution to its spiritual well-being. Straka was the celebrant at the service.

Following the Mass, more than 400 people attended a dinner and program at the Northampton Memorial Community Center. Members of Straka's family, including his father, Frank, were there.

Speakers recalled Father Straka's time as a youth, his emergence as an adult and his June 2, 1990, ordination as a priest.

State Rep. Julie Harhart (R-183rd) presented Straka with a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. She said Straka serves his parish and community in an exemplary way that is to be honored.

Northampton Mayor Thomas D. Reenock, in a proclamation, designated that Sunday as "Father Francis P. Straka Day" in the borough.

"I encourage all residents of the borough and surrounding communities to join me in congratulating the Rev. Francis P. Straka for his years of faithful and dedicated service," Reenock said.

Borough Manager Gene Zarayko and Council President John Yurish were in attendance.

Whitehall Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr., a member of the BVM choir, officially recognized Straka on behalf of the township's residents as shepherd of the people. Hozza said he learned that he and Straka were enrolled together at Allentown College, now DeSales University. Their paths never crossed there.

Straka earlier served as pastor at Holy Ghost Church, Bethlehem, and at the parishes of Our Lady of Hungary, Northampton; St. Ann's, Emmaus; Sacred Heart, Reading; and St. Theresa, Hellertown.

Straka said his official ordination was June 2, also his birthday, which will be celebrated by a quiet Mass. The large crowd, in a festive spirit, then broke out in song, Slovak style.