Active priestly ministry is coming to a close for me. After prayer in the Spirit and conversations with trusted friends, I will be retiring from my position as pastor on June 29 of this year 2024.
Since coming to Notre Dame in 2015, I have been inspired by you, who bring a joyful spirit to the Church in the larger community of Cedar Knolls and neighboring towns. I have grown as a priest and person. You have encouraged me to excel as a shepherd-leader. I have been surrounded by exceptional people giving guidance to our mission as a church in renewal, believing, and trusting in the mission of Jesus.
With the power of the Holy Spirit, we have grown in our understanding of what it means to be catholic, followers of Jesus, and fearless in facing the future as a Church.
If I were to acknowledge one factor in our success and fruitfulness in facing the future, it would be the presence of the Holy Spirit persuading us to follow the ‘pathway’ of Divine Renovation, a platform for renewal founded by Fr. James Mallon. With the support of an exceptional staff, dedicated ministry leaders, and you faithful parishioners, we have forged a way of Church renewal based on the New Evangelization of the Second Vatican Council (1963), welcoming all who seek to love the Lord.
As of this announcement, know that I am committed to ensuring that the transition to a new pastor will be full of hope and expectation for Notre Dame. We will continue to fulfill our mission of becoming a vibrant church community of disciples of Jesus.
Lent assures a hopeful transition with the many Discipleship Small Communities that serve nearly two hundred parishioners, with many more coming to Mass and observing personal promises. Our new Parish Pastoral Council will imagine our future in Christ. The Finance Council will continue to guide us, using wisely your generosity to Notre Dame. Our talented pastoral staff and ministries will ensure that you and your family members will be nourished with the Word of God and supported on your spiritual journey.
Soon, we will celebrate the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus with Easter joy. Pentecost will shower us with the power of the Holy Spirit to welcome, support, and journey with the new pastor chosen by our Bishop, Kevin Sweeney.
Our culture is one of generous welcome and hospitality, and personal engagement in telling all the Good News of Jesus. Centered in Christ, the future of Notre Dame is bright with joyful hope and poised to do great things for the Lord!
In the remaining months and days, we have much to accomplish. I am committed to you and our mission. I give myself completely, ensuring that Notre Dame will thrive as renewed disciples in love with Jesus.
This week, you will receive a Flocknote with a request from the Diocesan Personal Board asking for your participation in a brief survey to ascertain your hopes and dreams for a new pastor to lead the Vision and Mission of Notre Dame. I encourage you to take the time to complete it.
I look forward to seeing you at the Masses this weekend.
I pray God to bless us all. Please pray for me as I respond to a new ‘assignment’ called Retirement!
With deep gratitude in Christ,
Fr. Paddy
February 18, 2024Dear Parish Family,Priestly ministry is a blessing of God’s grace. The Church of Notre Dame of Mount Carmel has blessed me since my appointment as your pastor in July 2015. The “blessing’ began with my ordination on June 10, 1972, and has been part of my life ever since. My heart is full of gratitude.