Monsignor Francis J. Dutko, pastor of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Nesquehoning, today quietly marked his 50th year at the Nesquehoning parish with a celebration of his usual daily Mass.

He was ordained to the priesthood 55 years ago and was assigned to Immaculate Conception on May 19, 1926, following two years as pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sheppton. He was conferred the title of monsignor during his 50th anniversary as a priest in May 1971 by Pope Paul VI.

When he arrived in Nesquehoning, the church was in its infancy and services were held in what is now the church basement. He supervised the building of the present church on West Mill Street and the construction of the parish rectory.