My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
It is with both gratitude and a heavy heart that I share some important news with you. Archbishop McKnight has asked me to take on a new assignment as pastor of the Church of the Nativity in Leawood, beginning October 31. This was unexpected, and probably like you, I am still letting it settle in. Yet, as your pastor and as a priest of the Church, I trust in the Archbishop’s discernment and in the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, who guides us even when the path is not what we envisioned.
As I reflect on my time here at Corpus Christi, so many memories come to mind. I think of how we strengthened each other during the pandemic and how with each passing year more people became involved in Stewardship. I think of the many adults and children who have received the graces of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, and those who entrusted their sins to our merciful God through Reconciliation. I think, too, of the times of sorrow we shared through death or hardship, and the applause of joy as couples entered the Sacrament of Matrimony.
These moments, both joyful and sorrowful, have knit us together as a family in Christ. You have welcomed me into your homes, your lives, and your hearts. I have seen your faith lived out in acts of kindness, in your dedication to ministries, in your willingness to serve one another quietly and humbly. As your understanding and knowledge of Stewardship has grown, you have also seen how Church is blessed as you share your gifts with one another. Being your pastor has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, and I will always carry these memories with me.
At the same time, I want to assure you that I do not see this new assignment as a burden or as leaving you behind. Our priesthood is never just for one parish, but for the whole Church. Just as I have grown to love you here, I trust that God will open my heart to love and serve the people of the Church of the Nativity. I look forward to learning their stories, walking with them in faith, and discovering the unique ways God is at work in their midst.
I know transitions can be difficult, but they are also opportunities for renewal. Please pray for me as I make this move and know that I will be praying for you every day. Pray also for the new pastor, Fr. Carter Zielinski, who will come to Corpus Christi, that you may welcome him as warmly as you once welcomed me. Just as you have been Christ’s presence to me, I know you will be a gift to him as well.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you—for your faith, for your patience, for your trust, and most of all for the way you have taught me how to be a better priest. Though I will no longer be your pastor, we will always be together each time we gather at the altar and receive the Body of Christ – Corpus Christi.
With deep love and affection in Christ,
