Scranton Priest Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Ordination
The University of Scranton named its garden on the corner of Linden Street and Monroe Avenue the Rev. G. Donald Pantle, S.J., Rose Garden in honor of Father Pantle’s three decades of service to the University. Father Pantle celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination at a Mass and reception on June 19.
Rev. G. Donald Pantle, S.J., celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination at a Mass on Saturday, June 19, at Nativity of Our Lord Church in Scranton. A reception for family and friends followed on the campus of The University of Scranton.
Known on campus for his enthusiastic smile – and his potato pancakes – Father Pantle has served at The University of Scranton for more than 30 years. In addition to being an instructor of German and Spanish, Fr. Pantle worked for Campus Ministries and at the University’s Retreat Center at Chapman Lake. He is co-moderator of the International Students club, chaplain to the Women of the University Prayer Group and leads many student trips abroad. Father Pantle continues to lead retreats for students and alumni and often interacts with students, offering a Jesuit presence during everyday activities on campus. He received the Beining Award from Scranton’s Athletics Department for his support and “ministry of presence” with the basketball, soccer and baseball teams.
The University named its garden on the corner of Linden Street and Monroe Avenue the Rev. G. Donald Pantle, S.J., Rose Garden in honor of Father Pantle’s service to the university.
Born in Scranton, Father Pantle graduated from Scranton Central High School and attended The University of Scranton. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1948 and was ordained a priest in 1960. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Bellarmine College and a master’s degree from Middlebury College/Mainz University. In addition, he has studied at Woodstock College, Georgetown University, Goethe-Instiutu (Murnau, Germany), American University and Berkley College.
Prior to his service at Scranton, Father Pantle taught at Loyola High School, St. Isaac Jogues College and Gonzaga High School. He also served as superior of Jesuits studying or teaching at Catholic University for nine years.
The Rev. G. Donald Pantle, S.J. Scholarship at The University of Scranton was established in 1998 by the Scranton Jesuit Community and provides financial assistance to worthy students based on academic excellence and demonstrated need.
For more information, contact Scranton’s Department of University Relations at 570-941-4262.
