A Farewell Message from Fr. Bordonaro

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

With a heart filled with mixed emotions, I write this farewell message to express my deep gratitude and affection as I prepare to embark on a new chapter in my journey as a priest. It is with a sense of both sadness and excitement that I bid farewell to the beloved community of St. Joseph Parish, which has been my home for the past fourteen years.

As I reflect upon my time here, I cannot help but be overwhelmed by the countless blessings and graces that God has bestowed upon me. Each day, I have witnessed the power of faith and the love of our Lord working through the lives of each one of you. Your commitment to your faith has been an inspiration to me, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside you.

Throughout my time here, your prayers have been a source of immense strength and support. They were a real comfort during my physical challenges. Your prayers have been a reminder that we are all interconnected, united in our faith, through Jesus Christ.

I am particularly grateful for the trust you placed in me during the most intimate moments of your lives. It has been an honor and a privilege to celebrate the sacraments with you, to celebrate the baptism of your children, to bless your marriages, and to accompany you in times of grief and loss. These sacred moments have deepened my own faith and have enriched my belief in the profound love that God has for each of us.

As I prepare to take on different responsibilities at St. Eleanor in Collegeville, I carry with me the memories and experiences I have shared with all of you. You have left an indelible mark on my heart, and I will forever cherish the relationships we have formed and the moments we have shared.

Let us continue to support and pray for one another, even as our paths diverge. I have no doubt that this community will continue to grow in faith, love, and service, guided by the Holy Spirit. As I move forward, please know that you will remain in my prayers, and I humbly ask for your prayers as well, that God may grant me the strength and wisdom to guide the new flock entrusted to my care.

No matter the distance that separates us, God continues to unite us through the celebration of the Mass, for we all share and participate in the one Mass that is celebrated in Heaven for all eternity. I pray that you continue to grow in faith, so that Jesus Christ in the Eucharist will truly be the source and summit of your lives.

May God Bless You! You will be in my prayers,
Fr. Bordonaro