In an effort to foster greater unity among the Catholic faithful and provide for their various spiritual needs, Most Rev. Evelio Menjívar, Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, announced that Very Rev. Timothy J. Grassi, V.F., pastor of St. James Parish in Charles Town, has been appointed Episcopal Delegate for Matters Concerning the Usus Antiquior in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, effective August 24, 2026.
The expression Usus Antiquior refers to the celebration of the Eucharist according to the Missale Romanum promulgated by Saint John XXIII in 1962, otherwise known as the Tridentine Mass or Traditional Latin Mass.
To coincide with the announcement, Bishop Evelio will attend the Solemn High Mass at the Priory of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Charles Town on August 30, 2026, at 10:45 a.m.
In his role, Very Rev. Grassi will ensure such celebrations are lawfully permitted according to the universal law of the Church and the dispositions of the Apostolic See.
As Episcopal Delegate, he will assist the bishop in the coordinated implementation throughout the Diocese of the applicable provisions of universal and particular law concerning the Usus Antiquior. Very Rev. Grassi will also assist in coordinating authorized celebrations, locations, calendars, and pastoral provisions; to maintain appropriate communication with the local Episcopal Delegates and other priests appointed for the pastoral care of the faithful.
Three other Episcopal Delegates were also named in different regions of the Diocese. Very Rev. Justin M. Golna, J.C.L., J.V., pastor of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Wellsburg, was named as Wheeling area delegate. Our Lady of Seven Dolors Mission in Triadelphia is designated as the location in the Wheeling area at which the faithful may gather for these celebrations. Celebration of the Usus Antiquior is authorized there on Sundays at 1:30 p.m., beginning September 20.
Rev. Brian Crenwelge, pastor of St. John University Parish in Morgantown will continue to serve as the Morgantown area delegate. St. John University Parish is designated as the location at which the faithful may gather for these celebrations. Celebration of the Usus Antiquior is authorized there on Saturday at 9 a.m and on Sunday at 1 p.m.
Rev. Phillip R. Szabo, pastor of St. Agnes Parish in Charleston, will continue to serve as the Charleston area delegate. The location at which the faithful may gather for these celebrations is to be determined.
This is an effort on the part of Bishop Evelio to ensure that the spiritual needs of every portion of his flock are attended to by priests of our diocese.