Dear Parishioners,
I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to all who participated in and assisted with the celebration of my installation as your pastor, as well as my fifth anniversary of ordination to the priesthood.
First, I must thank Bishop Rice for celebrating the Mass and taking the time to install me as a pastor for the very first time. I am also grateful to him for entrusting me with so much responsibility. Even though I may appear young, he has never hesitated to expect great things from me—and I will work tirelessly to ensure that the trust he has placed in me bears fruit.
Second, thank you to all who attended the celebration, including my own family. Many of you took time out of your busy schedules to make this day a priority, and that does not go unnoticed. As a priest, I cannot fully express how much it means when people “show up” in support. In many ways, I never expect it, and I am deeply humbled and grateful that so many of you rearranged your schedules to be present.
I also want to extend my gratitude to all who ministered at the Mass—the choir, musicians, servers, and so many others. Your presence and efforts helped make the liturgy truly beautiful.
Thank you as well to everyone who planned and worked so hard on the celebration in the parish hall. Many hands came together to make the evening so memorable. I am certain Bishop Rice was impressed by the effort that always shines through in our parish celebrations—especially this one. He was genuinely touched that we remembered his birthday and honored him as part of the evening!
A special thank-you to the Fr. Kelly Band for joining in the festivities and bringing so much levity and joy to the night. They are outstanding musicians from our own area, and I am proud to be counted among their friends.
Now, as Bishop Rice has formally entrusted me with the office of pastor, I take seriously the duty to care not only for your souls, but for all in the territory of our parishes. This is a responsibility I do not take lightly, and I will work diligently to fulfill it. My hope is that we may grow in holiness together, striving for the Kingdom of God with greater devotion and grace.
Please know that I am always at your service, no matter how busy I may appear. My time and my energy are yours, in any way I can help you draw closer to Christ and His Kingdom.
With gratitude and prayers,
Fr. Belken
