Ta Ta For Now

My Dear Parish Family,

I am not a huge fan of goodbyes or farewells, and I have never been particularly fond of moving either—but here we are. We come to our farewell. Maybe it would be better to say TTFN, or as my Gram always used to say, “See you in a minute!”

Over these past eight years we have forged some deep connections and shared pivotal moments in our life of faith. Remembering all the Baptisms, Weddings, Funerals, Confirmations, Christmases, Easters, Parish Feast Days… the list goes on. It can be overwhelming at times for me, not to mention the school and the convent and making our way through the pandemic together. We have shared a lot of life experiences.

And together, we have tried to build up the Body of Christ in our little corner of the world, to make our own personal faith stronger, and to make our collective faith knit together into the beautiful fabric we call the Church. If you remember nothing else, keep close to you the key idea that the Church is built of living stones (you and me) and that together we are called to advance the kingdom through personal holiness and works of charity. 

I am proud of you. Can I say that? As your spiritual father, a proud papa, my heart swells with healthy pride at how far we have come, how much we have accomplished together, and how vibrant and dedicated we are as a parish. I am proud of you.

Allow me to offer special thanks to anyone who has taken the time to write a note, send a card, share a meal, give a gift, or lifted up a prayer for me. These are all signs to me of your appreciation, and I am grateful for them all. I am a bit overwhelmed by all the thanks and love, by people recounting stories or moments, but I am trying to take it in, as signs of the fruit of God’s love planted in our hearts. Thank you for allowing me to accompany you over these eight years on this part of your journey.

Life will continue to move forward here at OLPH! There is much work left to do, as there always seems to be. The next step or another project will always be on the horizon. And I am entrusting you to the care of a dedicated pastor in Fr. Fernando. My prayers are with you and with him during this time. Please also pray for me, especially at the altar.

May God bless you and keep you! May he make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you! May he lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace! And may almighty God bless you +

Yours in Christ,

Fr. Joel