Ever since the Mass of the Resurrection for Pastor Damm last June, I’ve been urged by a variety of people — colleagues, bishops, Saint Peter’s leaders and members — to state, as accurately and definitively as possible, the expectations and mutually agreed-upon timeline for the conclusion of our ministry together; the transition to a new pastor; and Carole’s and my plans for our next adventure in our life together. I am writing this — hopefully my final letter on this subject — because as this program year begins, I hope to focus with you, not on our leaving, which is both necessary and painful, but on our ministry together in Christ which, at least for Carole and I, has always been a wellspring of joy. So, here it is as best I can describe it…
