SAGINAW — In 2010, while hosting his first Ball as Bishop of Saginaw, the Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone surprised and entertained guests when he took the stage, guitar in hand, to perform his rendition of Lefty Frizzell's "Saginaw, Michigan." Every year since, Bishop Cistone has performed a song at the ball in what has become a highlight of the dinner program.
This year, as the Bishop's Ball celebrates its 10th anniversary, Bishop Cistone announced plans to auction off his guitar. The proceeds will benefit a donor advised fund, administered by the Catholic Community Foundation of Mid-Michigan, in honor of his parents, the late Daniel and Josephine Cistone. The fund supports charitable causes across the Diocese of Saginaw.
"I purchased the guitar shortly after I was ordained a priest in 1975," Bishop Cistone said. "It's a 12 string guild and I liked it because John Denver played the same guitar at the time. Last year, I had it refinished, restrung and repolished. I had the neck adjusted and got it in shape for its new owner."
Bishop Cistone admits playing the 12 string guitar has grown more difficult for him in recent years, and instead favors a 6 string guitar. He looks forward to finding a new home for his "old guitar."
All are invited to attend the Bishop's Ball on Friday, April 29 at Horizons Conference Center in Saginaw. The evening is a celebration of the ministry and outreach of the diocese, including Catholic education and Christian service. The event, which is black tie optional, features the Bishop Murphy Award presentation, a silent auction, formal dinner, and live band and entertainment. Ticket information may be found by clicking here.