My dear people of St. Mary’s:
I will be speaking to you in person at all the Masses this weekend to introduce myself. Just two weeks ago, Bishop Murphy called me to see him and told me of Father Morris’ departure. He asked me if I would agree to become administrator of St. Mary’s, and I joyfully agreed. I grew up just next-door, in Munsey Park in Manhasset, so this seems rather like coming home again.
A few days after my meeting with the Bishop, I met with Fr. Morris, and he gave me a tour of the parish. He was very gracious to me, and spent a great deal of time explaining everything that had occurred from his arrival up to the present. I was glad to have the opportunity to thank him in person for all the wonderful improvements he has made, but most especially for his enthusiastic shepherding of St. Mary’s. I was very happy to hear that he had such a wonderful farewell last weekend, and that you had the opportunity to show your gratitude to him for his zeal and dedication. Similarly, I spent last Sunday saying goodbye to my parishioners at Our Lady of Victory Church in Floral Park. I am sorry to leave them, but glad to come to you.
So now we begin a new chapter in the life of St. Mary’s together. I look forward to working with all of you in building on the great foundation Fr. Morris laid. I believe this is both a great moment and a wonderful opportunity in the life of our parish. As Blessed Teresa of Calcutta famously said: “Together, let us do something beautiful for God.”
−Fr. McCartney