Holy Family Parishioners,
Well, I’m sure many of you have heard by now of the big news that our pastor has been named the next Bishop of Salina, Kansas. I know for myself, it is a cause for a mix of emotions. I am deeply saddened by the loss of such a good priest, pastor, and friend here in our Diocese. He has been instrumental in my entering seminary, formation prior to priesthood, and now in parish ministry. I give thanks to God for the blessing that he has been to me. At the same time, I rejoice for the gift that this is to the universal Church. It is encouraging to know that men like Bishop-elect Jerry (still getting used to saying that) are the ones chosen for these important roles of leadership in the Church. I do not doubt that he will be a great shepherd to the people of the Diocese of Salina. Indeed, as so many of us have experienced, he is a shepherd after the heart of the Good Shepherd.
Bishop Boyea has assured us that he will assign another priest here. We will keep the parish as informed as possible about the details during this time of transition. We do ask for your prayers for Bishop-elect Vincke and the people of his Diocese. Please, also, continue to pray for our parish here, that the Lord would not cease to pour out His graces on us. This is certainly a time of grief for our parish, but our Lord desires to be present and at work here. Let us continue to look to Him.
Following are the words of Bishop Boyea from his press release:
“The Diocese of Lansing is very happy to join in the celebration of the nomination of Monsignor Gerald Vincke as the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Salina, Kansas. The priests of our diocese as well as myself will deeply miss our brother priest as he moves into this new ministry. The Holy Father, Pope Francis, has honored not only Msgr. Vincke but our diocese with this appointment.”
“We offer to Pope Francis our love and gratitude. Certainly, the good people of Holy Family Parish in Grand Blanc, Michigan, will also miss their pastor since they recognize in him the very gifts which the Holy See finds will provide loving leadership to the Diocese of Salina. He is a fine priest, a man of deep faith in Jesus Christ, and a gentle soul. Our loss is most sincerely their gain.”
Have a safe and blessed week!
Fr. Dan