Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
When I first arrived here at the parish back in the summer of 2016, there were a lot of unknowns on my part. It was my first time as an administrator and was only the second time moving parishes altogether. It was a bit daunting, and I wasn’t sure how the transition would go. Would people respond well to my approach at Mass? Would people enjoy my homilies? How would it work out with the staff? But my apprehensions were for nothing, and I’ve been blessed in so many ways in my time here and look forward to continuing my ministry at St. Charles for the foreseeable future.
From those early days, I remember something that was both a tremendous blessing and an initial challenge of sorts among the office staff. It was a unique situation to be someone in their early 30’s who had staff members that had been in their position for nearly as long as I had been alive. And yet, with Toni and Janet, that was exactly the case. But in looking back it, I’m forever grateful that they had such experience and wisdom and that they generously shared it as I learned the ropes and found my footing.
That makes the following news I’m sharing that much more bittersweet. Toni Martino is retiring from being the Business Manager after 35 years or so. While it will afford her more time with her family, particularly her grandkids, it’s still sad to see her go. She did tremendous work over the decades and the various pastors stationed here and really put herself into her work and to help the parish flourish. I know she’s not really going away and will continue to be part of the parish, but it’s still going to be weird not seeing her in the office and interacting with her in that way. I’m personally deeply indebted to her work, dedication, and care in her role as Business Manager.
As sad as such news is, I do want to also share that Phil Lods has graciously agreed to come onboard to take on the role Toni is stepping out of. You may know Phil as an Usher or EM at the 8:30 Mass or as the current President of the Holy Name Society, or perhaps even the Carnival. Over the last several weeks, he’s been coming in and Toni has been working to get him up to speed with our particular way of doing things. Currently, Phil will be coming in on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the parish while also maintaining his other employment. I appreciate his flexibility and willingness to help the parish out and he’s already proven to be a capable and hard-working member of the parish staff.
There may be some gaps in the immediate transition so please bear with us. But my thanks and prayers are with both Toni and Phil in the days and weeks to come!
Peace and Goodness,
Fr. Dan
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