Dear Friends,
It seems that it was just the other day I came to this beautiful parish, and in no time, eight months have gone by. I always thought that it would be hard to say goodbye. I was right! It is hard. Yet I consider myself fortunate to have met such a wonderful pastor, Fr. Rich, and the loving parishioners who cared so much about me that it makes saying goodbye to you all so hard. Having worked under Fr. Rich, it gives me confidence to take any assignment in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Many, many thanks to you, Fr. Rich. I also take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to all of you, for the love and generosity. Your substantial contribution toward "Renovation of Girls' Residence" in Collem, India, overwhelmed me. It honestly speaks volumes of your faith and commitment to advance God's Kingdom.
As I say goodbye, let's remind each other that farewells are not forever. They are simply words to say that I will miss you dearly, and that I will remember you fondly. I am moving to St. Gilbert Church in Grayslake. The parish was founded in 1930 and has 2,800 registered families and an elementary school with 450 students. St. Gilbert is located 40 miles from St. Josaphat. But Richard Bach says, "Can miles truly separate you from friends? If you want to be with someone you love ... aren't you already there?" And so it is, and always will be: I will carry all of you always close to my heart.
God bless you all,
Fr. Jose Baptista, sfx
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Our hearts are full with gratitude for the people of St. Josaphat Parish. From the first time we walked by this Church and stopped in for Mass in 1992 until today, we have been blessed to know you. You have taught us so many things through shared laughter, tears and so many other emotions. We have watched our children grow up in this parish and we have been privileged to be part of your families' lives as well.
Any farewell brings a bit of bittersweet sadness. We have been blessed; it wouldn't be truthful not to admit that we are mourning the loss of regularly worshiping with you at this place that we have called our spiritual home for many years.
Our faith is universal; we share it with all whom we come in contact through our actions. So embracing new people at another parish is just an extension of our Catholic family and an expanding of our ministry. Again, how fortunate we are!
Thank you to each one of you who has touched our lives and those of you who will continue to do so. We will always consider St. Josaphat a Church to Come Home To and will always hold our time here in a special way in our hearts.
We will continue to pray for you and hope you will include us in your prayers as well.
Deacon David Keene and Erin Shields
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Sunday, June 28
after the 10 am mass!
We will thank Fr. Jose, Deacon Dave, and Erin Shields for their ministry at St. Josaphat and bid them farewell as they move to other parishes.
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Experience writing grant applications?
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Talk to us!
We could use your help and expertise in shaping a new grant application soon. Contact the Parish Office at 773.327.8955.
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St. Josaphat Tots Playgroup
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Wednesday, July 22
11 - 12 pm
Lower Meeting Room
We will have toys for the little ones and caffeine for you! Parents/caretakers of babies & little ones, we know you need to get out of the house. Join us for some adult conversation and playtime for the kids! Bring a friend!
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