The Reverend Michael J. Piccola is originally from Hazleton, Pennsylvania and a graduate of Hazleton High School. After completing his high school education, he entered Saint Pius X Seminary in Dalton, Pennsylvania and the University of Scranton to begin his preparation for the priesthood. Upon receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Social Studies, Father entered Mount Saint Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland to complete his theological studies for ordination. He graduated with a Master's Degree in Theology and a Master's Degree in Divinity from Mount Saint Mary's. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1978 by the late Bishop J. Carroll McCormick, Bishop of Scranton, at Saint Peter's Cathedral in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Father Piccola also holds a Master's Degree in School Administration and a Master's Degree in Religious Education both completed at Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
His previous assignments included Assistant Pastor and Moderator of Saint Agnes School in Towanda, Pa (1978 - 1982). Director of Religious Education at Sacred Heart High School in Carbondale, Pa (1982-1985). Principal of Bishop O'Rielly High School in Kingston, Pa (1985-1991). Pastor of Good Shepherd Church in Drums, PA (1991-1999). Pastor of Immaculate Conception Church, West Pittston, Pa. and the Church of the Holy Redeemer in Harding, Pa (1999-2010). Father briefly served as Administrator of Saint Francis of Assissi Church in West Hazleton, Pa. Father Piccola was assigned as Pastor of Saint Cyril and Methodius and Saint Stanislaus Parishes in Hazleton in July of 2010. He was also appointed Dean of the Southern Luzerne County Deanery by Bishop Joseph C. Bambera
Fr. Piccola, retiredRetired as Pastor and as a Priest on October 01, 2025
Fr. Piccola's Final Mass was held on Sunday September 28, 2025 at 2:00 PM in the Parish Church.
