June 1, 2004

Under the leadership of Fr. Jim Leary, the Parish of St. Joseph has been blessed with a level of collaboration between clergy and laity that is rarely seen.  Fr. Jim is able to make this work by valuing our ideas and opinions and then casting direction after prayerful thought and discussion.  It is uncommon to have a priest who is an effective pastor, a humble steward, and a vigilant administrator all in the same person.  Through Fr. Jim’s leadership we are empowered to sustain a high level of quality in our liturgy and worship, to reach out to our sisters and brothers in need, to support Catholic education, and to be prudent in the care and use of our parish assets.  Among the many things that will be missed are his masterfully crafted homilies that challenge us to think as he opens the scripture for us.  How blessed we are to have known him for these 18+ years!

If you were to ask Fr. Jim what it means to be a pastor, I suspect he might say something like this:  “It’s not about me.  It’s about ‘our’ work together, in this time, in this place.”  Look at the results of our work here together at St. Joseph!  We could not have done it without him.

Now it’s time to share God’s blessing with another parish.  We have grown, and now other people need to grow.  What a blessing he has been to us.  What a blessing he will continue to be in the vineyard of the Lord.

You are a holy man, Fr. Jim.  The trees are planted, standing firm against the storm, and will be bearing fruit for all time.  A big part of you remains here with us.  A big part of us goes with you.  You have been a cherished priest, pastor, teacher and friend.  We will never forget what you have done here.  God be with you, humble servant.

Rick Swenton, Pastoral Council President