Message from the Pastor

March 23, 2023

My Dear Parishioners and School Community,

During my time as your pastor, whenever any matters arose that would impact the parish, I felt it was my obligation and duty to speak to these points personally at Mass, which I have done this weekend.

As many of you might already know, my parents are aging and experiencing multiple health issues. These issues have impacted my time traveling to my parent’s home in South Jersey. Much of the responsibility for my parent’s care has fallen on the shoulders of my youngest brother. I use my days off to assist my parents with medical appointments, shopping, daily care, and, most importantly, to offer my brother a bit of a break. St. Mary’s is a multi-dimensional and busy parish where, in addition to overseeing the everyday parish responsibilities, our three schools also require much of my attention.

I spend most of each day in my office, meeting with staff members and addressing the many avenues that make up the life of a highly complex parish and physical plant. You may have noticed that I am experiencing an increase in mobility issues, which are also affecting my overall health.

Our Bishop, John O. Barres, asked to see me a few weeks ago. He expressed his concern over my health, the stress of the parish, and caring for aging parents has placed on me. He offered me the opportunity to take a break to rest and spend time with my parents as they near the end of this life’s journey. I also expressed that for the last 30 years, I have wanted to go on a sabbatical in Rome for a three-month study of Sacred Scripture. He was open to the idea and encouraged me to take advantage of those months of study. Bishop Barres presented several options about how this step would impact the parish. The needs of this parish are also important to me, and part of my reflection and prayer included what was best for the parish and school community. In light of this, I have decided to step down as pastor right after Easter. Bishop Barres will appoint a temporary administrator, and another pastor will be appointed to St. Mary’s in June.

I am deeply grateful to Bishop Barres for reaching out to me and his pastoral concern during this difficult moment in my life. This concern speaks of the Shepherd’s heart for the priests and people of the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

I cannot express the joy it has been to serve as your pastor these past 10 years. I have found the wonderful people of St. Mary’s to be not just encouraging and supportive but also a source of inspiration and strength in my time here.  I have never worked in a parish where I have received so many uplifting letters, emails, and kind words. As I have said to you quite often from the pulpit, you make my ministry as pastor not only easy but joyful. I am eternally grateful to each of you for that, and I want you to know that your support has meant the world to me.

It was suggested that I return in June to celebrate Mass and have a formal farewell. I look forward to that time together, and I am hopeful for the bright future of St. Mary’s under the guidance of the new pastor.

Please keep me and my family in your prayers and be assured of mine. Once the road before me becomes less arduous and my sabbatical concludes, I look forward to being assigned to a parish again in the Diocese. St. Mary’s will always hold a special place in my heart. I will carry the love and memories of this parish and her schools wherever I go. I am deeply grateful for your understanding and support in this decision. Thank you.

Peace to you all.

Fr. Bob