Last: There has been a song that’s been playing in my heart and mind over the last few weeks. It’s titled “What a Beautiful Name (it is).” It’s a song about the name of Jesus by Hillsong Worship (please listen if you get a chance). As the song has played in my mind, I’ve also thought a lot about the last three years at Holy Family. What a beautiful time it’s been for me! I can’t thank you enough for your kindness and support—and for your deep faith. It’s been an absolute joy to serve here. Thanks to all of you who were able to come to the farewell Mass and reception last Sunday. I am going to miss all of you!
What’s Next: I will spend the next six weeks getting ready to be ordained and installed as the bishop of the Diocese of Salina on August 22 (this will take place in Salina). It’s like planning a wedding—I have to come up with a guest list and pick the food for the reception. I even have to pick out a ring! I also have to make a five-day retreat, go to Washington DC for a “baby bishop” school (there is another one in September), and go back and forth to Salina a couple times for important events.
Mom: Many of you have asked about my mom and how she feels about my impending move. I appreciate your concern. She is doing fine and has gotten used to the fact that I won’t be around as much. I will miss seeing her (and my family) as well.
Column: This is my last column for the bulletin. I’ve enjoyed communicating to you this way. I plan on doing something similar in the Diocese of Salina.
Fr. Joe: In my correspondence with Fr. Joe, our new pastor, is really excited to come here. He is well-known in the diocese through his speaking, preaching and writing— especially in FAITH Catholic. He is incredibly gifted. As I mentioned in my homily last Sunday, he is brilliant, very creative and strives for holiness. I know he will take Holy Family to new heights—including the church renovation project.
Thank you: I am grateful for having two wonderful associate priests in Fr. Gary and Fr. Dan. They have been a tremendous blessing in my life. I learned from them in many ways. I also am grateful for our wonderful staff. Deacons Larry and Denny are two of the best. Our staff really cares about you and they want to serve you. And our school is doing wonderfully under our principal Theresa Purcell and the staff and teachers. The best is yet to come!
Dedicated: I’ve been meaning to put this in the bulletin for some time. It’s a story of a silent helper. Margaret Erickson, who is 86 years old, arrives at our Church every morning by 6:30 am to replace the votive candles and do other sacristan duties—all unseen by others. Thank you, Margaret. You really inspired me!
Enjoy the 4th of July. May God bless you, your families and all your endeavors and plans.
With much love and prayers,
Msgr. Jerry
“He loves, He hopes, He waits. Our Lord prefers to wait Himself for the sinner for years rather than keep us waiting an instant.”
St. Maria Goretti, whose feast day is July 6. On her death bed, the 13-year-old forgave the person who stabbed her numerous times