My Love Letter

Praise be Jesus Christ, now and forever.

You all need to know that I do not wish to leave this parish, but truly need to do so. I have had three strokes while serving as your pastor. The last stroke truly slowed me down and it is time to realize what I often say to you: "Let go and let God work." It has been my privilege to serve as your pastor. Please know that I did not want to close any of the parishes that eventually were closed. It was always my intention to try to keep those parishes open. But we as Catholics here in Flint recognize that Flint has lost more than a few parishes. The Catholic Church needs to be in Flint! But we ultimately must acknowledge that it is the Lord's Church. He has given us the power of the Holy Spirit to maintain this Church in spite of our failings. And accepting God's Will is always a humbling reality. Let us all strive to serve the needs of our brothers and sisters in this city no matter their race or creed. But always remember we base everything on Our Lord Jesus Christ; and whether they know it or not He is the reason we serve and He is the One we offer. A priest cannot serve in one place for twenty years and not know that he has offended some people. That is the corrupting nature of our shared humanity. But the Incarnate Lord is with us and it has always been my desire to do my best for you and I will leave it to Him. Please accept my apology if you have weathered the storm of my pastorate and still have remained a member of the parish. (You deserve a medal.) I will always keep this parish in my prayers and heart. And although St. John Vianney Parish holds a special place in that heart we need to hold to being the Catholic Community of Flint. Our unity lies in the Eucharist and not in any jurisdictional church or diocese. Remember that the next time you receive the Lord. We go to God together! Last of all, and this is truly embarrassing to admit: The other day a parishioner approached me who I have known well and hold as a friend and I was totally blank as to their name. You have been patient with me all these years, please continue to do so. And please keep me in your prayers. The Lord blessed me with this parish. I am grateful to all of you and my love for you will always be present in the Masses that I offer. I will always, God Willing, be your priest.

May Holy Mary, Mother of Flint, who's intercession and love is essential to this city bless us. Always it must be Jesus, Mary and Joseph and peace will follow. My gratitude and love to you. Fr. Tom