THE EVANGELIST

July 2026

​

Dear Parish Family and Friends,

 

I was looking through some of my books and I came across a service for the Ending of a Pastoral Relationship and Leaving from a Congregation. I have been trying to figure out what I should do to take my leave as your pastor and this service seems to me might be a good way to do it.

 

I am sure that I will be very emotional on my last Sunday, but maybe that Sunday will be a good time to add a short prayer service to the beginning of the Mass. 

 

What can I say to you and express to you the great joy I have had for the past 30 years here at St. John’s, I remember the early days when we (St. Johns) looked for places to hold services. Mount Mary College Chapel, members homes, and the storage garage of then Wander’s Rest Cemetery, finally moving into our currant home. Many people said we wouldn’t last, but God blesses those who bless Him, and that is what St. John’s has been all about, blessing God.

 

Through the years this parish has seen growth in numbers and in spirit. You have been a place of healing for those who needed help. You have reached out into the community with your support of the Falls Food Pantry, New Beginnings, and Shady Lane Greenhouse fund raisers to help support that outreach. You helped to build and support our sister parish St. Peter’s in Grahamstown, South Africa. And I can’t say enough about the support you have given me, especially during and after my heart surgery. I know that I have pushed things on you, but it has made St. Johns a stronger witness to the gospel. 

 

When Bishop Fodor announced that he was making me a Prebendary (honorary Canon) I felt that things were complete. A pastor is only as good as his people. So, I share the honor with you. When I was sitting for my oral exams before my ordination one of the members of the commission asked me how I felt about becoming a priest and leaving the ranks of the laity. I responded that I will never feel that I am better, because God called me out to lead His people, that I am still part of the laity of the Church, just given a different job. A priest should never forget that he has been called to lead as a shepherd not a task master. His words should always be kind, and he should always be able to put himself in the place of those who are in need. For we all know that God will raise up the poor, and He will take down the proud.

 

My pride is not for me, but for you, and the way you have made Christ present in the small part of the world where God has planted you. Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. God Bless you all.

 

In Christ,

 

Father Thomas B. Wirth, Rector and Prebendary

​

​​