Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The Most Reverend Dale J. Melczek, Third Bishop of the Diocese of Gary, passed from this life peacefully early this morning, August 25, 2022, at the age of 83. On August 19, he celebrated 30 years in the Diocese of Gary.
Bishop Melczek was a true shepherd who loved his flock. He was a tireless servant and a compassionate pastor. We have been blessed tremendously to have such a hopeful and caring leader. Until his last days, Bishop Melczek was still looking for new ways to share the love of Jesus in Northwest Indiana. We now entrust him to the love of Jesus so that he may be drawn forward into the Lord’s eternal embrace.
On Sunday, August 28, 2022, the Rite of Reception of the Body will take place at Holy Angels Cathedral at 1:00 p.m. Visitation will take place from 1:30 - 8:00 p.m. with Evening Prayer at 5:00 p.m. and Night Prayer at 7:45 p.m.
On Monday, August 29, 2022, visitation will resume from 8:30 - 9:45 a.m. followed by Morning Prayer. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. All liturgies are open to the public and will be livestreamed on the Diocesan YouTube channel.
Please remember Bishop Melczek in your prayers as we thank God for the service that he rendered to our diocese. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Trusting in the mercy of Jesus, I remain
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Robert J. McClory
Bishop of Gary