Fr. Dan Maurer reads a letter from Bishop David A. Zubik, establishing our new parish and assigning the name and clergy team

Dear Parishioners,

As we continue to adapt to new ways of doing almost everything, I ask God to keep your hope strong so we can be open to new opportunities and possibilities for the future. 

Please take a moment to consider the following information as we move closer to the January 2021 merger of Saint Joan of Arc and Saint Louise de Marillac Parishes:

1. As we look to the future. We are truly blessed in our parish grouping, in so many ways:
   • We have two vibrant parishes to bring together and, in some significant ways, we have already started to work together as one (e.g. our shared clergy and staff, our combined Faith Formation department, and the shared use of facilities).
   • We have two beautiful yet distinct (in architecture and décor) churches in which to celebrate the Sacramental Life of our Faith.
   • We have wonderful facilities for a wide variety of activities and ministries (although use of them are temporarily restricted by the covid-19 pandemic).
   • Both of our churches are in good shape physically and financially, as are their accompanying buildings.
   • Our two churches are only 3.5 miles apart (with an easy, direct route between them). Both parish communities are filled with talented, competent, faithful people – many of whom are already involved in important ministries and activities, and many more who will hopefully consider a greater involvement.

2. Virtual Parish Assembly. You are invited to view our Virtual Parish Assembly. As of September 4, our Virtual Parish Assembly has been posted on this page (scroll down a bit to watch the video). This presentation can help you to stay informed about the merger process.

3. Providing Feedback Regarding the Virtual Parish Assembly. Your parish clergy, staff and the combined Pastoral Council would very much like to hear your thoughts concerning the Virtual Parish Assembly -- your comments, questions, suggestions, etc., regarding the life of our faith community. You can provide this electronically by using the form below (it is located below the video from Fr. Dan.) Submissions must be received by September 16.

4. Helping to Discern a Name for Our New Combined Parish. You are encouraged to participate in the final phase of proposing names for our new combined parish. We have received a response from Bishop Zubik regarding the fifteen names we submitted for his initial review (names that were taken from the many suggestions put forth by parishioners). From the eleven names that were approved, we are to submit five final names for the Bishop’s consideration. The names and the naming process is discussed in more detail in the Virtual Parish Assembly. The same form referred to in point (3) above can be used to submit your top three name choices. Members of the combined Pastoral Council will review all the feedback and submit to Bishop Zubik a list of the top five names, from which he will select the new, official name. We will be notified of that name toward the end of November.

Please provide your input regarding the Parish Assembly and your name preferences on one form per person or household, as you prefer.  It is preferable to have your feedback submitted electronically through the form below no later than September 16.

Please keep our entire parish grouping in prayer. We are grateful for your support and involvement in these endeavors.
 
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Dan Maurer and Fr. Jon Brzek