As you have all become certainly aware by now, Fr. Scott and Deacon John will assume the additional role of Pastor and Deacon respectively of St. Patrick Church in Brooklyn on July 1st of this year.
So, the big question is, “What will change for St. Mary?”
At the moment, no decisions have been made.
This is uncharted territory for us and the needs of both parishes are being explored with the utmost care and consideration.
Will there be changes to Mass times? Undeniably, yes.
Will the changes be upsetting to some? Again, yes.
There simply is no conceivable way to move forward, sharing a Pastor and a Deacon, with a church 20 minutes away, without concessions at both locations, not to be made.
Although change may be difficult, and one can easily be mired in the negative aspects of the situation, this is also a wonderful opportunity – a meaningful opportunity – to become the stewards of Christ that we have long proclaimed ourselves to be.
I have served this parish for 18 years and in that time I have weathered many changes, and to be fair, some of them I was less than delighted to undertake. But, I did so for the greater good.
I frequently say, perhaps to the annoyance of others, “In the end, everything will work out”.
I say that because I sincerely believe it to be true.
There will be bumps in the road. That is certain. For now, I ask for patience and an open heart to the inevitable changes ahead.
I also ask for empathy, for Fr. Scott and Deacon John, as they embark on a challenging chapter of their ministry. It’s not an enviable position to be in, but I feel strongly, what is most important is that they are successful – and we all have an fundamental part in their success by practicing understanding and flexibility.
Lastly, I ask that you pray for Fr. Scott, Deacon John, our parish family, and all those of St. Patrick Parish and staff as we forge ahead in the next chapter in our parish history.
~ Jay Deitrich, Office Manager