Malvern Retreat House Cross Installation Ceremony

November 12, 2024

Lift High the Cross!

Malvern Retreat House celebrated a momentous occasion on November 11, 2024 with the installation of the Papal Cross that Pope St. John Paul II had blessed during his 1979 visit to Philadelphia. The cross now stands proudly on the retreat house property, as a symbol of faith and hope for future generations. The event was attended by long-time retreatants, board members, former board members, as well as students from Malvern Prep and St. Patrick’s, who joined the Malvern team to commemorate this special milestone.

Journalist and papal expert Pat Ciarrocchi hosted the ceremony and shared her reflections on this historic event. Michael Norton, President of Malvern Retreat House, spoke of the profound significance of the day for the retreat community, noting that the cross will serve as a beacon of hope for all Catholics, but especially for the youth.

Among the guests were individuals with special ties to the cross. John Brown and Michelle Miller were present to witness the next chapter in its journey. John was on-site when the cross was originally transported by helicopter to St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in 1979. Michelle’s father, a skilled craftsman, built the original altar for Pope St. John Paul II’s Mass during his visit.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia generously gifted the cross to Malvern Retreat House after it stood on the grounds of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary for over 40 years. Following the sale of the seminary property in Wynnewood, Malvern received the cross and moved it to its campus in May. A careful restoration and refurbishment process began soon after to preserve this cherished artifact.

The cross is now permanently installed in its new home at the foot of Malvern’s great lawn. Future plans include constructing an outdoor altar around the cross, enhancing its place as a spiritual landmark on the property.

Many individuals and families played a pivotal role in making this move possible. Malvern Retreat House extends its deepest gratitude to the Petrongolo Family, who facilitated the relocation of the cross from the seminary to Malvern. They also generously donated their time and expertise to build the cross’s new base. The Petrongolo family enlisted the help of Thackery Crane, who skillfully hoisted the cross into place. Additionally, Paul Colletti, a long-time Malvern retreatant, coordinated the project between Malvern and the Petrongolo family, offering his time and leadership.

Landscape architect Duane McCarthy, another Malvern retreatant, donated his professional services to determine the best location for the installation. Duane is also working on design concepts for the new altar.

We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to Bob Perricone, a master carpenter, who spent countless hours carefully restoring the cross. Bob’s craftsmanship ensured that this sacred artifact was returned to its original glory. Last but certainly not least, we owe a great deal of gratitude to Erik Toner for his tireless work in overseeing this project from start to finish. As a member of staff Erik coordinated with volunteers and managed the logistics of moving and installing the cross.

This event marks not only the physical installation of a historic symbol but also a spiritual milestone for Malvern Retreat House. Malvern plans to build an outside altar around the cross which will be dedicated by Archbishop Perez on June 22, 2025. 

We look forward to the continued impact of this sacred cross on our community and the future generations it will inspire.