Farewell from Fr. Noel

08-02-2020Weekly ReflectionFr. Noel

Brothers and Sisters,

When I set foot at St. Rose Parish three years ago and met parishioners, my impression was that this is such an amazing Parish. The Parish community was very welcoming and supportive. I did not find it hard to adjust, thinking of the proverbial phrase FIRST IMPRESSION IS LASTING. The spirit of the community has captured my heart, which makes me say, if I had my choice I would not wish to be transferred. Things have changed and circumstances are beyond my control, many times to our dismay. There are reasons why things happen which God knows and allows, and we human beings cannot but wonder and ultimately submit to His will. My transfer to the Salt Lake City Diocese is Gods will and as a priest I am dutybound to follow it. Our life as priest is a total dedication and submission to God’s plan. We come and go according to God’s bidding.

As I bid farewell to this community, let me express my deepest gratitude first and foremost to God, who assigned me here, to Father Bing who accepted me to work as a collaborator, and most especially parishioners who welcomed, supported, and loved me dearly as a member of the family. I bring with me the cherished memories I had with you, which are etched in my heart and will never be forgotten. Thank you for allowing me to journey with you these past three years. I hope that I accompanied you well in this journey through my homilies, my presence in the SCC gatherings, the Anointings and sick visitation, confession, and even house blessings. I also hope that I radiated Christ’s presence in these activities. In all of them, I am still haunted by my weakness and limitations, I am not perfect and my ministry has some flaws, so I ask for your understanding and forgiveness.

The journey continues, allow faith to guide you to reach your destination. Perhaps God will send you another journeyer.

God Bless, and always remember, I love you very dearly

Fr. Noel