Father Craig Retirement

  Last week at all of the Masses I announced that Archbishop Gomez has approved my retirement beginning July 1, 2026.  For those who may not have been present last weekend, I wanted to repeat that announcement as part of this pastors message: 
 
  My service as Pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish began on July 1, 2014.  These last eleven and a half years as part of this wonderful parish community have been full of blessings and joys.  I give thanks to God for being missioned here and for all of the amazing people who have been part of this parish family.  
 
  Today I wanted to share with you that I will conclude my service as Pastor at the end of next June.  I turn 74 in 2026, and Archbishop Gomez has approved my retirement.  I wanted to share this directly with you rather than simply place a notice in the bulletin.  I have mixed feelings as I share this with you.  I know this is the right time and that I will have new opportunities to minister in different ways in the coming years, but I truly will miss OLPH.  Please keep me in your prayers as I will pray for you.  It seems so fitting that this is the weekend of our celebration of Thanksgiving, for my heart is full of gratitude.  Thank you for your love and support.  What a privilege it has been to be on this pilgrimage of faith with you.  I am grateful to you, and I thank God for you! 
 
I look forward to these remaining months among you.  Let us continue walking together on our pilgrimage of faith. 
 
Jesus, the shoot that sprang from the stump of Jesse, fulfill our hopes.  Holy Mary, beloved Mother, may we like you be filled with the spirit of wisdom and understanding.   
 
Father Craig