Dear Friends,

As we enter the summer months, there is an opportunity to look at what changes need to be made for the beginning of the fall season. I want to announce some exciting changes in our parish staff. 

I have asked Sue Orlando to take on the position of Parish Administrator. She is currently in the position of Human Resources and Database. She has a long history of working in the Diocese in different positions. I trust her; she is loyal to the parish vision, and we can work well together. 

I have asked Eric Tamayo, our Pastoral Associate, to be our full-time Parish Liturgist. Liturgy is one of our pillars, and it takes a full-time person to have Liturgy done well. People might think it is only a Sunday work position, but it really requires work behind the scenes. Recruiting, training, and teaching all liturgy ministers, teaching the understanding of liturgy to the parish community, as liturgy is every day in a parish community. He will be working closely with me and Paul Hillebrand, our Music Director.  

I am also announcing that we have hired Leah Hill as our Social Justice Coordinator. Leah grew up in our parish and saw from the beginning our Social Justice at St. Patrick. She brings great experience, working with Honor Health and Mayo Hospital, organizing and helping people be their best in their professions. Pope Leo XIV has stated that social justice will be important in his papacy, and St. Patrick understands that Catholic Social Teaching is rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I feel confident in these hirings, and we have more positions to fill this summer. We are looking to strengthen our five pillars (liturgy, social justice, hospitality, formation, and stewardship), and we are on our way to keep improving. 

Please keep us in your prayers as we move forward this fall.  

Peace in Christ,

Fr. Eric