Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Farewell and Hello

My brother is a Catholic priest, and for the last 9 years he's been pastor of a small country parish. This past Sunday he let the family know that he's being transferred to a larger parish in a nearby city. The new parish is 3 times as big, with twice as many Masses scheduled. This will mean a lot more work for Joseph. I presume that this parish has some permanent deacons, but I don't know how many.

It was a hard decision for him to make, but he said he knew he needed to do it when he heard the bishop's reasons for the request. This small town had become his home, and he'd become a part of it.

Joseph has just over a month to wind up his affairs and pack up all his belongings. I think we will be going out there to help sort out what is his and what belongs to the rectory.

We will all miss this small town and the people who took us into their hearts because we were Fr. Joseph's family.

3 comments:

Krazy Kate Designs said...

Sweet Ladybugs.

Joy De Vivre Design said...

What a great new start for him! I am sure he will be missed though.

Beat Black said...

thats so sad but im sure he and your town will adapt over time. there are a couple priests that had to leave when i was younger but i can still remember them very well :)