I write this letter with a sense of joy and sadness. My joy stems from the years of service and friendship I have enjoyed these many years as your pastor. Your acceptance and encouragement as well as your cooperation in the many spiritual programs and projects served as a source of confidence and inspiration to me.

The sadness results from the realization that the years have caught up with me and I find that it is time for me to retire in June of this year. The years have passed with unbelievable speed, which testifies to the happiness I have enjoyed here. I have been here for 18 years and my hope is that I have served with dedication to the mission we have taken during that time.

These have not been easy years in the history of the church. The scandals, financial problems, the corruption of moral values in our society have been a challenge to all of us. We must gain confidence from the promise Christ has given us that he will be with us until the end of time. The church as a whole is moving into a new era, one that will make many demands on all of us. These demands, through the grace of God, will bring about a vibrant and spiritually powerful church. I am certain that God will continue to bless you with his love and grace.

Your dedication and influence on my life will serve to encourage me in whatever demands are made of me. I leave with gratitude and love for a people who taught me the reality of HIS love. 

With sincere thanks, I wish you all God's blessing and love.

Sincerely in Christ, 
Fr. Thomas