Pastor in Residence Father Tom McCarthy

“The Year for Priests”

Did you know that Pope Benedict XVI has declared June 19, 2009 to June 19, 2010 as the “Year for Priests”? At various time, Popes have declared a specific topic for a given year to lead the faithful to greater reflection. The purpose is always for deepen growth in both knowledge and spirituality, leading the People of God to greater faith and conversion of mind and heart, so that as One Body we are configured more closely to Christ. (Clicking on the icon will take you to the USCCB website for additional information.)

Dearly beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,

By now you have been informed of my new assignment as temporary administrator at Holy Name Church in Trenton. My leaving St. Maximilian has probably been a shock to many of you. It has for me.

I look forward with eagerness as I begin the next journey of my priesthood. It will be a difficult transition for me as well as for Holy Name- who are dealing with the death of their pastor. Fr. Klein has served the people of Holy Name faithfully for the past 19 years. I recognize the challenges ahead as well as my own limitations, so please pray for me and the people of Holy Name during this transition.

I am disappointed that I am leaving St. Max. This was my first assignment, and every priest remembers his first assignment fondly. I began nearly three years ago, fresh from the seminary- very much wet behind the ears, as you know. So, thank you for your encouragement, support, and advice during my time here. I know it wasn’t always easy watching me grow into the priest that I have become today, so thanks for your patience. I have thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the Sacraments, teaching you our faith and the honor of allowing me to be part of your lives. I have truly experienced the blessings and fruits that come with placing faith in Jesus Christ and God’s divine providence.
I am also disappointed in the way that I am leaving. I had always hoped that when the time to move on came, I thought that I would have had the opportunity to tell you in person and thank you for the generosity, kindness, and encouragement you showed me these past three years. I tried my best to be the best priest I could for you, and I apologize for the times that you experienced something different then that.

I leave you with great hope and promise for myself and for you. Fr. Geoff is a wonderful and caring pastor who works tirelessly to provide for the needs of this large, but faith-filled parish. I wish the people of Holy Name were as lucky to have such a good shepherd watching over them. The staff at St. Max is also very good and it has been a pleasure working with them. With this said, St. Max is still a very big and active parish, so more then ever, Fr. Geoff and the staff will need your support, patience, and prayers during this transition.

Rather then saying good-bye, I’ll just say, “See you around”. The good news is that I am not moving far away. And for a period of time will be living part-time at the rectory as well as working from time to time in the parish offices. Know that I leave with great fondness in my heart for the St. Max community, and will keep you all in my prayers. I hope that you will do the same for me.

Pax Christi (Peace of Christ)

-Fr. Tom McCarthy
Temporary Administrator- Holy Name
Former Parochial Vicar – St. Maximilian Kolbe
 

 Links to Fr. McCarthy's Homilies