A Message from Father Gregory

"Place your hand in the hand of the Galilean." These words from the chorus of a once-popular gospel song beautifully remind us of the trust a child places in a loving parent. A child willingly takes a parent's hand, confident of receiving guidance, protection, and love. There is a beautiful Polish song often sung by children that expresses this same childlike trust: "I am not afraid when it is dark; Father leads me by the hand. Sometimes I worry about things I cannot do; You comfort me and understand me." These simple yet profound words remind us of the peace and security that come from knowing we are never alone and that our Heavenly Father lovingly watches over us. As we grow older, however, we often become more independent and may gradually drift away from this trusting relationship with God. Jesus teaches that those who remain humble and possess a childlike heart are the ones most open to recognizing God's presence and action in their lives. Too often, we place our trust in success, possessions, status, or other temporary comforts. While these things may provide momentary satisfaction, they cannot bring lasting peace or happiness. Even with many accomplishments, we can still find ourselves burdened by worries, disappointments, and unmet expectations. Christ invites us to rediscover the joy that comes from trusting in Him. By embracing our identity as beloved children of God and placing our hand once more in the hand of the Galilean, we find strength for our struggles, guidance for our journey, and comfort in times of uncertainty. Jesus extends His loving invitation to each of us: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Dear Parishioners, My name is Fr. Grzegorz Jaworowski, though you may simply call me Father Gregory. As you can likely tell from my surname, I am originally from Poland. Archbishop Coyne has appointed me as your new pastor, effective June 30, 2026, for a term of six years. This weekend, I have the privilege of celebrating my first Holy Mass with the parish family of St. Kateri Tekakwitha. I was raised in Szczuczyn, Poland, in a devout Catholic family. Following high school, I entered the seminary in Łomża and later earned a Master's Degree in Theology from the Catholic University of Lublin. I was ordained to the priesthood in 1994. Shortly after my ordination, I served for eleven years in France in the Archdiocese of Sens and Auxerre. During that time, I obtained a Licentiate in Pastoral Theology from the Catholic Institute of Paris. One of the great blessings of my priestly life was meeting Pope Saint John Paul II during the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000. He received me in his library at the Vatican and graciously bestowed his blessing upon me. In 2006, I came to the United States and have since served in parishes in Bristol, Manchester, Derby, and most recently for nine years at St. Anthony Parish in Prospect. Throughout my ministry, I have sought creative and meaningful ways to proclaim the Gospel in an ever-changing world. It is both an honor and a blessing to begin this new chapter of ministry with you. As we celebrate Independence Day and look ahead to the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding, let us thank God for the gift of freedom. May we remain faithful to the values upon which our country was built and seek God's wisdom as we work together for justice, peace, and the common good. May God bless the United States of America, and may God bless each of you and your families.

In Christ,

Fr. Gregory