Dear Friends,
This Wednesday, June 29, marks the fifth anniversary of the merger of the former St. Mary Parish and the former St. Agnes Parish into what is known now as Precious Blood Parish. While the merger did not go seamlessly, for change is difficult for most of us, I look back in amazement at how you, the people of the parish, have adjusted and adapted to a new situation. I am pleased to see that many of you feel quite free in going to Mass at either of the two churches in the parish, even though in your hearts there will always be a special affection for your own church. We must remember that we are Precious Blood Parish and that we are fortunate to have for our use two very beautiful parish plants. We must also remember that, just over a year ago now, we welcomed the people of Christ the Redeemer Parish and we are also fortunate to have that beautiful facility available to us, at least for the near future. No decision has been made regarding the property at Christ the Redeemer, although a committee has been formed to discuss options. We will be meeting again as a committee in the near future.
During the past five years, we commended Father Callahan to the Lord as he passed from this life in January of 2020, just shy of ninety-five years old and in his seventy-first year as a priest, half of those years serving as pastor of St. Agnes. We welcomed Father Sam and Father Deny in June of 2017. Father Deny left us to take up studies in Rome in 2019 and Father Lijo came to us in November of that year. Father Lee Hellwig came to us in November of 2021 when Father Sam was reassigned to West Hartford. Father Moncy joined us earlier this month and Father Hellwig was reassigned to Hamden. Seven priests in all have served in some capacity since the formation of the new parish.
What will the future hold? The Archdiocese continues the process of pastoral planning and the model that is being implemented widely is what is known as the “municipal model,” whereby each town, at least optimally, should be served by a single parish. In some cases, several smaller towns may come together in a single parish. No decisions have been made regarding Milford, but at some point, we might well see something develop. For now, all remains as it is. We continue to worship God together, seek to spread the Gospel through faith formation and social outreach, and grow in our faith. That is what a parish is for. We are doing quite well, but we can always be better and improve.
I want to thank all of you for your cooperation, your flexibility and your understanding. I would be remiss if I did not, at the same time, thank you for your wonderful generosity. Your giving of your time, talent, and your financial support make all the difference in the world.
May God bless you all!