Dear friends,

I am (mostly) moved in, and I have hit the ground running this week. My term as pastor of St. Joseph began July 5th, and I've learned a lot in the last few days about our community here at the parish. It's a very welcoming place, and I'm grateful to everyone who has been so kind to me since my arrival. 

This weekend (July 9th/10th) will be my first weekend here, and I'll be presiding at all of the Masses. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to introduce myself more formally to the community. Next weekend (July 16th/17th) Bishop John Doerfler will be coming for my "installation." The installation itself will take place at the 10 AM Mass on July 17th, but the bishop will preside at all of our Masses that weekend. Please give him a warm welcome.

I promise I won't inundate your inboxes with messages, but I wanted to send out an initial email to make sure you knew that I am in town and available for any pastoral needs that may arise. I hope to be accessible to you, and I am very interested in what you think the parish's greatest strengths and greatest weaknesses are. I expect to do a lot of listening, especially during this first year to discern, with you, where the Holy Spirit might be leading our community. 

Please especially keep me in your prayers. I have been praying for you since the bishop assigned me here. I look forward to meeting you this Sunday!

In Jesus, Mary, and Joseph,

Fr. Brad