Last week, I received the letter from Bishop Matano with the news that we've all been expecting for many months. The letter began by confirming my status as a senior priest starting on June 26th. The Bishop's letter went on to inform me that he has appointed Fr. George Heyman as the new Pastor of the Church of the Assumption and the Church of the Resurrection.

As you may know, Fr. George has recently completed his term as the President of the Saint Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry where he has worked for many years. He is a wonderful teacher and has spent a good part of his career passing on his knowledge of Sacred Scripture to many people. Fr. George has been very helpful to us in the last four years since I was asked to assume the additional role of pastoring the Church of the Resurrection. His generous assistance has given all of us a chance to come to know him better and appreciate his many scriptural insights. As you know, he preaches powerfully, presides well and is a great teacher.

Fr George and I go back many many years together and I believe he will put his many gifts at the service of our parishes. Both COTA and COR have wonderful, competent and well-educated staff members who will assist him in his leadership responsibilities.. In recent years we have been developing a core of leaders who will help him become acquainted with the daily routines of our parish. He already knows many people through his liturgical presence in both parishes.

Please be praying for both of us as we make transitions in our lives. I'm confident that the Spirit of God will provide the wisdom and guidance that we all will need as we move into the future.

Fr. Ed