Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful summer assignment I had here with you all here at Saint Thomas Parish. The time I spent with you has been profoundly enriching and has left an indelible mark on my heart.
Father Jantz, your guidance and wisdom have been invaluable to me. Your dedication to serving God and His people is truly inspiring, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities you provided for me to learn and grow under your mentorship.
To the entire parish community of Saint Thomas, I extend my deepest thanks. Your warm welcome, generosity, and support made me feel accepted and cherished as part of your spiritual family. The kindness and encouragement from each member of the parish were a constant source of strength and motivation. Your faith and fellowship have deepened my determination to serve God and His people.
My experiences this summer—participating in the life of the parish, learning together about our faith, and growing together in union with Christ—have been educational and transformative. I have experienced pastoral care, community, and the profound impact of faith in action. These lessons will remain with me as I continue my discernment. As I move forward, I will carry with me the love, wisdom, and memories from my time here.
You all will remain in my prayers, and I hope to return and visit. Please pray for me and my brother seminarians that we may persevere in our call to the priesthood, and that in trust and humility we may always walk with God in our journey, thus becoming the Life of the World. May God continue to bless you, Father Jantz, and the entire Saint Thomas Parish abundantly, guiding and protecting you in all your endeavors. Once again, thank you from the depths of my heart for this incredible opportunity. I am eternally grateful for your mentorship, kindness, and the profound impact you have had on my life.
Pax et Bonum, Semper Fidelis,