Honoring Fr. Brett’s Service & Next Steps for Saint Clement

With Gratitude & Blessings: A New Chapter for Fr. Brett

Dear Saint Clement Community,

As we think of Saint Clement Parish, our minds and hearts often turn to the inspiring pastors, dedicated lay leaders, staff, and faithful parishioners who, since 1905, have helped build and shape this remarkable community of faith. Today, I'm writing with deep gratitude and a bit of sadness to share an important announcement about one such inspiring leader, Fr. Brett.

Cardinal Cupich has appointed Fr. Brett to a new ministry as Administrator of St. Josaphat Parish, also here in Lincoln Park, effective June 30, 2025.

We have been blessed by Fr. Brett's dedicated service and heartfelt commitment to Saint Clement. Many of you will recall his presence and generosity during his sabbatical with us in 2022, and again over the past year as our Associate Pastor. His passion for ministry, warmth in pastoral care, and enthusiasm in supporting our community have deeply enriched our parish life.

As the number of priests continues to decline, the Cardinal requested Fr. Brett for this important leadership role at St. Josaphat, recognizing his pastoral skills and depth of experience. While we are saddened to see him go, we are grateful for his contributions. Fr. Brett’s familiarity with our community presents a wonderful opportunity to foster a deeper collaboration and partnership between Saint Clement and St. Josaphat, particularly in ministry and outreach efforts.

Please join me in sincerely thanking Fr. Brett for his loving service to Saint Clement. We will hold him in our prayers and offer our full support as he transitions into this new pastoral assignment. A special Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated at 11:15 a.m. on Sunday, June 1. More details on this celebration will be provided soon.

The Cardinal has personally assured me that a new Associate Pastor will be appointed to Saint Clement to continue our vibrant ministry and meet the spiritual needs of our growing community. Our senior staff and representatives from the parish councils will assist in the process of interviewing and selecting the new Associate Pastor.

As we reflect on these changes, let us also recognize that the reason we are able to offer numerous Masses, opportunities for confession, and sacramental celebrations is due to the incredible generosity and dedication of our former pastors and my own spiritual heroes: Fr. Tom Hickey, Fr. Ken Simpson, and the Very Rev. John Kartje of Mundelein Seminary. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their legacy and example.

Thank you for your ongoing prayers and support during this time of transition.

With gratitude for you,

Fr. Peter Wojcik

Pastor

Saint Clement Parish