The National Centre for Padre Pio, Barto is pleased to announce the appointment of Deacon James (Jim) Friend as its new Executive Director, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for the premier destination in the United States dedicated to the life, spirituality, and legacy of St. Pio.
A permanent deacon of the Diocese of Allentown, Deacon Friend brings more than three decades of Catholic leadership experience and nearly 25 years of distinguished service in advancement, fundraising, communications, and nonprofit management.
Throughout his career, he has successfully led development efforts for dioceses, Catholic schools, ministries, and faith-based organizations, building programs from the ground up and generating transformative growth in donor engagement and philanthropic support.
Most recently, Deacon Friend served as Director of Mission Advancement for the St. John Vianney Center, Downingtown.
“Deacon Friend brings a remarkable combination of faith-filled leadership, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of Catholic ministry,” said John Shields, President of the National Centre for Padre Pio Board of Directors. “His proven ability to inspire generosity, strengthen organizations, and communicate makes him uniquely qualified to lead the National Centre as we continue to grow our mission and serve pilgrims from across the country.”
Deacon Friend also serves as a permanent deacon at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown, where he assists at liturgy, in parish ministry, and in service to the parishioners.
With his wife, Kristin, he co-founded Kristin's Crosses, a Catholic YouTube Channel dedicated to prayer, evangelization, and faith formation. Through daily Gospel readings and reflections, Rrosaries, devotions, and livestreams, the channel reaches more than 258,000 subscribers and generates over 1.5 million views each month.
“I have long admired the National Centre for Padre Pio as a place of prayer, healing, and encounter with God,” said Deacon Friend. “Padre Pio is one of the Church’s most beloved saints. His modern-day examples of faith, humility, and devotion continue to inspire countless people all around the world.
“I am honored to continue the mission founded by the Calandra family over 50 years ago and join this extraordinary ministry in my home Diocese. I look forward to working with our dedicated staff, volunteers, supporters, and pilgrims to expand the Centre’s reach and deepen its impact for future generations.”
As Executive Director, Deacon Friend will oversee all aspects of the Centre’s operations, strategic planning, mission advancement, fundraising, communications, and pilgrim engagement. He plans to continue to grow and strengthen the Centre’s current position as a nationally recognized spiritual destination and center for devotion to St. Pio.
For more information, go to www.padrepio.org.
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