From Upstate New York to refugee camps in South Sudan, Father Mike Bassano has spent 50 years as a Maryknoll priest walking with those on the margins—offering presence, compassion, and hope.
In this recent NY1 feature, Fr. Mike reflects on his life in mission—from ministering to children orphaned by war to comforting those suffering from AIDS and leprosy.
It’s in the stillness of nature where Father Mike Bassano says he feels closest to God.
“This is God’s cathedral out here, something much greater, something that inspires me, that moves me,” said Bassano.
He has always tried to follow the path to create a life led by that spiritual voice.
Bassano recently celebrated 50 years as a Catholic priest, serving mostly as a traveling missionary with the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers based in Ossining.
He has spent decades living in some of the most dangerous regions of the world, helping the poorest of the poor in Africa, Asia and South America.
“I remember people in the camp who would come up to me and embrace me and say, ‘we are glad that you are here.’ And that would fill me with tears and emotion,” Bassano said. “And that’s the gift of mission, to be present for people in their most dire moments of need, struggle and conflict; to let them know they are not alone.”
Check out the full story and video with Fr. Bassano.
Discover what it means to serve in mission today:
https://maryknollsociety.org/vocations
