Rev. Msgr. Ronald P. Sciera, a devoted Roman Catholic priest who dedicated his life to serving God, the Church, and the people of Western New York, passed away in Florida.

Born on November 9, 1934, in Niagara Falls, New York, he was the son of the late Matthew and Wanda (nee Fryc) Sciera. Msgr. Sciera pursued his calling to the priesthood with a strong commitment to his faith and education, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Mary's College in Orchard Lake, Michigan, in 1957, followed by a Master of Arts degree from Louvain University in Belgium in 1961. He was ordained to the priesthood that same year.

Throughout his priestly ministry, Msgr. Sciera served numerous parishes, including Holy Family Church, St. Peter Church, and St. Anthony Church in Leroy, New York; St. Aloysius Church in Cheektowaga; and Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Buffalo. In 1979, he began his service as pastor of Precious Blood Church in Buffalo, where he continued his ministry and dedication to the spiritual life of the community.

Beyond his parish responsibilities, Msgr. Sciera was deeply committed to bringing people closer to God through healing services, which he organized and conducted beginning in 1981. He also devoted himself to young people, organizing youth trips and helping foster their faith and personal growth. His ministry extended to Catholic radio programming, through which he shared the teachings of the Church and the message of faith with a broader audience.

Msgr. Sciera's service reached well beyond the parish walls. He was involved with the Erie County Youth Board, served as director of the Kensington-Bailey Community Center, and was a member of the board of directors of Villa Maria College. He also served as chaplain of the Buffalo Sabres Hockey Club and was affiliated with several religious, fraternal, and Polish-American organizations, including the Association of Polish Priests for Polish Affairs, St. Joseph's Guild, the Knights of Columbus, and the Kosciuszko Foundation.

In recognition of his contributions to the Church and community, Msgr. Sciera was named Citizen of the Year for Religion by the American-Polish Eagle in 1990. In 1991, he received the Maxima Cum Laude honor from the Orchard Lake Alumni Chancellor's Senate.

Fluent in English, Polish, Italian, and French, Msgr. Sciera embraced opportunities to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. He also enjoyed biking and traveling.

Throughout his life, Msgr. Sciera's ministry reflected a lasting commitment to faith, service, and community. His years of priestly service touched many lives, and his dedication to the spiritual well-being of others remains an important part of his legacy.

Funeral arrangements in Buffalo are pending. Please check back for service details as they become available.

Florida arrangements: Stanfil Funeral Home Obituary