This week, I give my column to Michael Niese, our deacon-in-training, who has positively impacted our parish in so many ways.  Whether it was serving with the St. Vincent de Paul Society or teaching OCIA classes or giving reflections at Mass or sacramental prep gatherings, etc., Michael shared his heart with us this year and we are grateful for that….

To the entire St. Francis de Sales parish community, I want to offer a sincere thank you for welcoming my family and me this past year during my parish assignment.  I am overwhelmed by the kindness you have shown me these past several months. You saw me grow in formation this year, and you saw my family grow as well!  Thank you especially to all those who welcomed me into various ministries or social functions throughout the year.  Each of these experiences helped me grow in my intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral formation.

What I will remember most about my time at St. Francis de Sales is the sense of community that is present throughout the entire parish. This creates a truly welcoming and friendly environment, which I felt from our very first Mass back in August.  This is a tremendous strength of the parish, and I will miss it as I move on to the next chapter of my formation.

I don’t know where the next two years of formation will take me. In some sense that can be scary. But on the other hand, continuing to give my “yes” to God provides an even greater sense of freedom. John’s Gospel reminds us, “Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” That’s often easier said than done.  But when we give our heart and time to Jesus, He transforms that fear into peace.

Thank you again for welcoming me this year.  Next weekend, I will be finishing my parish assignment for this year, although I do hope to be back throughout the summer. Know that I will continue to pray for the entire St. Francis de Sales community.  Please continue to pray for me and the other men in diaconate formation.  Thank you!
Michael Niese

Michael and his family will be at the 9:00 a.m. Mass on June 1 as an opportunity for us to thank him for his time here and for how he has impacted our parish life.  Thanks again, Michael!

God bless you all,
Fr. Jeremy

P.S. Thanks again for all who celebrated well the ordination and first Mass of Fr. Ryan Arto.  It was an amazing weekend.  Thank you for helping to make it a beautiful celebration!