Dear Disciples of Christ at Holy Spirit, St. Helen’s, and St. Mary’s,

“Peace be with you all!”

These were the first words spoken from the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica by our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, echoing the very first words of the risen Christ, the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His flock. As I formally become your administrator, I would like these to be my first words to all of you as well:

Peace be with you all

Although I wish I could be with you in person to offer this greeting, circumstance has it that I
begin my time as your administrator while away from our parish. In addition to this assignment,
Bishop McClory has asked me to continue my studies at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in
Detroit. This program requires me to spend five weeks at the seminary during each of the next
three summers.

I regret that these five weeks coincide with the beginning of my time with you. Please know,
however, that even in my absence I am praying for you daily and eagerly looking forward to the time when we will meet. I look forward to hearing your stories, getting to know you, bringing
Jesus to you, and bringing you to Jesus.

During my time away, Bishop McClory has appointed Fr. Mick Kopil, pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann
Seton, to serve as temporary administrator from July 1 through August 7. Fr. Mick will ensure
that our ordinary life and ministry continue smoothly during my absence, that the sacraments
are celebrated, pastoral needs are cared for, and the daily operations of the parish continue. I am deeply grateful to Fr. Mick for generously accepting this responsibility and to Fr. Ian, who will be carrying much of the priestly ministry during these weeks.

Over the course of my time in Detroit, I hope to remain connected with you through this bulletin
column. I plan to share a little about myself and my prayer for all of us.

Finally, I would like to give a big “thank you” to Fr. Tom for his many years of devoted service to
Holy Spirit, St. Helen, and St. Mary. I was especially moved by the words he shared in his
farewell article, words he learned from our predecessor, Fr. Joe Murphy: “Love the people you
serve.” Fr. Tom did not treat those words as an empty slogan; he lived them with great joy! For that witness, and for his faithful ministry among you, I am profoundly grateful.

Until we meet in person, please know that you are in my prayers each day. I humbly ask that
you remember me in yours as well.

Peace, Fr. Steven Caraher