Fr. David is leaving 14 Holy Helpers

From the Desk of Father David

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

              On this great feast of Pentecost, let us give thanks to God for filling us with His Spirit. We were sealed with the Holy Spirit at our confirmation.  Because we have the Spirit of God dwelling in us, we have a great dignity and are called to treat each other with dignity.  We also have gifts that are uniquely ours.  No two people are the same.  Don’t focus on someone’s gift, search to discover your gifts.  Remember that your gifts develop and change throughout your life.  Please continue to use your gifts for Jesus’ mission which will strengthen the Church and world.

I would like to give more details about last week’s announcement about me being transferred.  Some background information, three years ago I was asked to take over SS. Peter and Paul in Williamsville.  After praying and reflecting I said no because it wasn’t the right time to leave Fourteen Holy Helpers.  Over the past three years, I was asked three more times to take over a different parish.  Each time, after prayer and reflection, I said no because it wasn’t the right time.  After making my decisions, I received from God affirmation that I made the right decision and each time the Bishop supported my decision.  About two weeks ago as I was praying, I felt God was telling me that my work here was finished.  I didn’t know what was going to be my next ministry, until things were finalized by Bishop Fisher asking me to take on this new challenge in uncharted waters.  Since, I believe this is definitely what God is asking of me, I needed to say yes. 

On July 1st, I will become the pastor of six parishes in Family 16.  The parishes are: St. Leo the Great, St. Benedict, Christ the King, Ss. Peter and Paul, St. Aloysius and Infant of Prague.  My heart is full of sadness because I am leaving.  I take comfort in the fact that I am only twenty minutes away and I can come to visit, and I hope you will visit me.  Where my office will be or living space is still undetermined.  There are many Family of Parishes that have not been decided upon, West Seneca is one of those areas.   The Diocese is hoping to have all these areas settled by June 14th.  We are looking at starting a newsletter so that you will be kept abreast on all that is happening in our area.

Come Holy Spirit and fill us with Divine love and guide us always.

In Christ’s peace,

Fr. David