By Pam Flynn

Managing Editor

The Memphis Italian Festival has named Monsignor Peter Buchignani as Outstanding Italian for 2008. The festival honors an Outstanding Italian each year for their dedication to the community.

"I am honored to have been selected as Outstanding Italian for 2008," said Msgr. Buchignani. "I remember fondly my time as associate pastor at Holy Rosary Church. Holy Rosary was, and remains, a great parish. I thank the Memphis Italian Festival and Father Jim Martell for thinking of me with this honor."

"As pastor of Holy Rosary," said Father Jim Martell, "I am pleased and honored that Msgr. Peter Buchignani is being honored as Outstanding Italian of the Year. He served the parish at Holy Rosary for several years and I am happy that he is being recognized for his service to the parish and the diocese."

Msgr. Buchignani currently serves as pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Cordova. He is also Vicar General of the Diocese of Memphis. Ordained a priest in 1965, Msgr. Buchignani has served at more than a dozen parishes for the diocese, including Holy Rosary from 1967 through 1970.

During his time at Holy Rosary as associate pastor, he served with Father Cashin, who was pastor at that time.

Longtime parishioner Butsy Lanigan remembers those days fondly. "People still have many pleasant memories from when Msgr. Buchignani was an associate pastor here. Everyone loved him!" she said. "Father Cashin used to tease him and his love of Christmas - he would get ready for Christmas starting in October and still might not be ready by December 25!"

In 1987, Buchignani received a Papal Honor and was elevated to the rank of Monsignor.

He has also served the Catholic Community through his involvement in various Catholic ministries including Ladies of Charity, the Cenacle Retreat League, Youth Ministry, the Diocesan Liturgical Commission, Knights of Columbus and many others.

The Memphis Italian Festival will be held May 29, 30 and 31 at Marquette Park near Holy Rosary Church. The weekend includes live music, food and fun. The presentation of Outstanding Italian for Msgr. Buchignani will be on the main stage on Saturday, May 31 at 6 p.m.

Call 901-767-6949 or visit www.memphisitalianfestival.com for more information about the 2008 Memphis Italian Festival.