A few weeks ago it was announced that Bishop Perez has named Fr. Sal Ruggeri as the new pastor of Holy Angels Parish in Bainbridge. This appointment is effective May 1. As is very common in our Diocese, Bishop Perez has asked a neighboring pastor, Fr. John Betters, to become “Administrator” of St. John of the Cross Parish until the Bishop is ready to name a new pastor for St. John of the Cross Parish. There are a number of pastor openings in the Diocese and it will take a few months to make all the appointments. There are not a lot of priests waiting in the bull pen. Bishop Perez assured the people of St. John of the Cross he will be naming a pastor to the parish in the months to come. As Administrator Fr. John's role will be to maintain the Sacramental, Spiritual, and Temporal day-to-day operations in the parish. This is in addition to his responsibilities here as pastor of Ss. Robert & William Parish. Fr. John said, "I am a big guy and I have big heart and I know I can share it with two parish communities, especially since we are on the same street! I am humbled and honored to serve in this role and look forward to leading St. John of the Cross in fulfilling its mission, just as I do with Ss. Robert & William." Fr. John and Fr. Scott, will celebrate Masses and Sacraments at both parishes for the short term. This appointment is as of May 1. 

Prayers for you, Fr. John, and the parish communities of SRW/SJOC as you shepherd us in this time!