Fr. Jason C. Lody, FCM
Pastor

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Fr. Jason was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ. The youngest of three children, Fr. Jason is proud of his Italian heritage and credits the great faith of his parents for the gift of his vocation to the Franciscans.  Leaving New Jersey for college, Fr. Jason received a Bachelor's Degree in Theology from LaSalle University in Philadelphia and a Master's Degree in School Administration from The Catholic University of America. Fr. Jason also studied at The Washington Theological Union and received a dual certificate in Theology and Pastoral Counseling.  Fr. Jason completed his doctoral studies, focusing on education policy and effective administrative practices, and has directed school and district turnarounds and charter school start-ups nationally.  He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of an education management organization that supports high quality early childhood development throughout Virginia.  Fr. Jason currently serves as Minister General of the Franciscan Community of Mercy, a three year term he was re-elected to in 2020.  Fr. Jason enjoys a regular Peloton workout (follow him @gogolody), considers himself a foodie, and loves baking at home!   Contact Fr. Jason by clicking here

Fr. Julian Garcia
Pastoral Associate

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Fr. Julian, a native of Medellin, Colombia, felt called by God as a student at the Archdiocese of Medellin’s minor seminary. He began his university studies at Universidad de Antioquia, but on the advice of his Carmelite spiritual director transferred to the more religiously sensitive Universidad Luis Amigo.  In 2008, Fr. Julian came to the United States, where he prepared for the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, first at St. Andrew’s Seminary and then at St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD.  Fr. Julian is the finance and operations director of a nonprofit that provides free legal aid to those in need.

Mrs. Susan Kraft
Leader of Song

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Susie holds a Bachelor of Music degree from James Madison University and is a former elementary school music teacher and piano teacher.  A native of Fairfax County, she has over 20 years' experience as a church cantor and sings with the Fairfax Choral Society.  She currently teaches music in Fairfax County Public Schools while raising her three children.  Susie is extremely excited to have found St. Anthony's and is so happy to provide the music for our worship!