Monsignor James Dorney
A priest of Jesus Christ. A pastor of the parish of St. Peter’s. A father and brother to all at St. Peter’s Boys High School.
For 32 years, Msgr. Dorney dedicated his life to the service of the parish of St. Peter’s – especially the Christian education of youth. His humility, humor, generosity, simplicity, prayerfulness, and unbounded love touched the lives of thousands in the St. Peter’s Boys High School family. The men of St. Peter’s remain committed to following his example of Christian discipleship wherever they are.
Msgr. James J. Dorney served as pastor and later pastor emeritus of St. Peter’s parish for more than 30 years. Born and raised in New York, Msgr. Dorney was named pastor and administrator of St. Peter’s in 1983. He was elevated to Monsignor in 1995 by Pope John Paul II.
Through his tenure at St. Peter’s, he believed in opening the church to the community. A strong supporter of the arts, he often invited music, drama and arts organizations to perform at the school.
In addition to his service to St. Peter’s, Msgr. Dorney also served as chaplain to the U.S Coast Guard, New York Police Department, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Knights of Columbus and the Richmond Division Holy Name Society. He was a trustee emeritus of Richmond University Medical Center, a board member emeritus of Project Hospitality and an honorary member of the Notre Dame Club of Staten Island and co-vicar of Staten Island Catholics.
