As the new year is well underway, I want to share some thoughts about my experience at St. Patrick, nearly six months into my assignment.

First, I want to share that I’m comfortable with being self-deprecating, often laughing at myself. As the sixth child in my family, I learned early on to acknowledge my own faults before someone else could! Being new in a parish of St. Patrick's size can be overwhelming. As I navigate this role for the first time as pastor, I find myself easily distracted—often lacking a poker face! One’s blessing is often one’s Cross, too.

So, why am I distracted? I’m trying to observe everything and take it all in to serve our parish and be a good dad. If you see me seeming distracted, please feel free to say, “Hey, Father, focus! I’m right here!” I genuinely want to get to know you and be present; I just need to manage the “hamster wheel” of thoughts in my head. That said, it is truly wonderful to be here at St. Patrick. I have enjoyed many dinners in your homes (and at restaurants) over the last six months and have greatly appreciated getting to know many of you in these intimate settings.

Recently, I returned from a trip to New York City to visit family and friends. It was rejuvenating to get away for a few days. My parents instilled a love of travel in all seven of us kids. I find that travel broadens my perspective and highlights the importance of everything we are doing here in Wentzville. Just back from Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral as I write this, I am overwhelmed by the universality and singular mission of the Catholic Church. The Mass is the most perfect prayer, the same everywhere in the world—so very powerful! I am filled with hope and optimism for the future of our incredible parish community.

I also want to acknowledge that I’m still learning how to navigate life without my mom, who passed away nine months ago. She was my ideal role model, and I miss her dearly. As the author Elisabeth Kubler-Ross wrote, "The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not 'get over' the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it." This reflects my current journey. For many of you in the parish who have recently lost loved ones, it is my privilege to walk with each of you during this time. Please know that support is always available within our community.

As we move into 2025 and beyond, we have a significant task ahead of us: to continue building a Church of missionary discipleship. This can only be accomplished through prayer and the Sacraments. Jesus desires every soul to be saved and to share Eternal Life with Him and the Communion of Saints. I hope and pray that the people of St. Patrick will continue to develop good and prayerful habits, ensuring that we keep Jesus front and center in everything we say and do.