Thursday, June 10, 2010

ST. ANDREW DEANERY — There were multiple reasons to celebrate at St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lebanon on June 6.

Mike Kletzly, director of religious education at St. Francis de Sales Parish, and his wife, Beth, present Father Bernard Weldishofer, pastor, with a framed copy of “The Hands of Holy Orders,” a blessing for priests. Also pictured is Deacon Jay Rettig. (CT/E.L. Hubbard)

In addition to being the feast of Corpus Christi, it was also Father Bernard Weldishofer’s 18th anniversary of ordination. As the Year for Priests came to a close, the faith community felt it was a fitting time to honor Father Weldishofer, who has served as pastor since 2003.
 
“We really wanted to do something for him because of the wonderful pastor that he is. It was the perfect time to honor him,” explained Pat Metzger, music minister. “He’s truly in tune with his ministry. He knows what his calling is and lives it out in his own life. He’s just very, very pastoral and very hands-on.”
 
In honor of the occasion Lebanon Mayor Amy Brewer declared June 6 as “St. Francis de Sales Parish/Father Bernard Weldishofer Day” and presented a proclamation to the priest at both Sunday Masses. In addition, Father Weldishofer was given a framed copy of “The Hands of Holy Orders,” a blessing for priests. Adding to the music at both liturgies was extra instrumentation, including an oboe, Father Weldishofer’s favorite instrument. He also received special letters and notes written by the children of the parish, along with a “spiritual bouquet” book signed by parishioners who have committed to remember his intentions in prayer.
 
“It really was a wonderful day for us all,” said Marilyn Himes, parish secretary. “We are so blessed to have a priest that is so dedicated to the people here. This really was the least we could do to show him how we feel about him.”