Written ‘Nods

Your priesthood is a beautiful reminder that the Gospel is meant to reach far beyond the walls of a church. Through your preaching, your missionary work, and your dedication to efforts like the Apostolic Giving Circle and the Pontifical Mission Societies, you’ve helped bring Christ’s love to people many of us will never meet. That’s no small thing. The work you do behind the scenes strengthens the Church, brings hope where it’s desperately needed, and reminds us that every act of generosity can change a life. Thank you for carrying so many responsibilities with humility and joy. Your faithfulness has made a meaningful difference in this world, and I hope you know how deeply appreciated you are.

A ‘Nod to you for the way you have poured your heart into the students you’ve been called to serve. College can be a time of uncertainty, distractions, and big questions, yet you’ve created a place where faith feels real, welcoming, and worth pursuing. Through your preaching, your encouragement, and simply being present, you’ve reminded so many of us that God hasn’t stopped calling our names. Thank you for believing in us, challenging us to become saints, and walking alongside us with joy and authenticity. The impact you’ve made reaches far beyond the walls of the Newman Center, and I know countless lives—including mine—are better because of your faithful “yes” to the priesthood. May God continue to bless your ministry and all the students whose lives you’ll continue to shape for years to come.

Your priesthood has been a wonderful example of how knowledge, faith, and a love for the Church can come together in service of others. Through your homilies, writings, and years of ministry, you have shared the richness of the Catholic faith and helped others see the beauty found in truth and tradition. Your dedication to your vocation offers a powerful example for young men discerning the priesthood, showing them the joy and responsibility of becoming a shepherd after Christ’s own heart. May your continued service inspire many more to answer God’s call with courage and devotion.

After so many years of being part of this parish, I can truly say that your presence has been a gift. Your homilies have a way of reaching the heart—not just reminding us of our faith, but helping us live it more deeply in our everyday lives.  Thank you for the way you shepherd St. Patrick’s with such care, wisdom, and devotion. You have walked alongside so many parishioners through seasons of joy, uncertainty, loss, and growth, always pointing us back to Christ. Your words have encouraged me, challenged me, and helped me continue growing in my relationship with God.

Your dedication to reaching young people through retreats, outreach, and moments of faith formation has been a beautiful gift to the Church. By walking alongside the next generation, you help them discover the love of Christ and remind them that they have a place in His Church.  We are grateful for your courage to answer the call to the priesthood and for the “yes” you have given to serve God’s people. May your ministry continue to inspire others to seek Christ and grow in faith.