My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

I want to take a moment during this Advent season to thank each and every one of you for your sacrifices, generous supports, selfless stewardship of time, talent and treasure to our parishes. Many things have happened in my short time here at our three parishes; however, I have seen a clear revitalization of energy among our people. Your commitment to our local parishes has inspired me to work harder to serve you. Your love for one another has inspired me to love you more. Your patience for one another – especially for me – has inspired me to be more humble in giving myself totally for you. There is no word to describe the privilege to serve you as your priest and father in the faith. There is no place else I would want to be except to be with you, and I mean every word of it from the bottom of my heart.

I would like to apologize for the many times that I have failed you as your Pastor, please be patient with me. Please be honest and let me know what you think because I value your contributions in making our parishes a more loving and welcoming home for all who are searching for God. For those who asked why am I not more available to a particular parish, because I want to be available to all the parishes that have been entrusted to me. I want you to know that I try my best to be fair and respectful in serving each and every one of you, because each parish community has its own uniqueness.

Also, I want you to know that I truly value your gifts and talents. Please do not be afraid to ask or propose ideas to serve one another and to deepen our Catholic faith. My presence as your Pastor is not to control or micromanage everything, but to assist each and every one of our members – especially our leaders – discern his or her gifts in serving the communities of faith and at large. I believe that the clergy needs to step back in order to listen, support and allow the people of God participate and build up their local communities of faith by serving, leading by example, discern with the people, and empower them to be servant leaders. Just as our Heavenly Father loves me in my own blessings and imperfections, I want to be a father who supports, strengthens your gifts, and care for you in your struggles. Please do not be afraid to let me know and talk to me if I can be of help for you and your family.

Thank you for everything. I wish each and every one a blessed season filled with the love of the Savior who came to save us in spite of our unworthiness. Please pray for me as I do for you.

Sincerely in Christ,

fxmtvk

Rev. Fr. Khoi V. Tran