A Season of Transformation: Jubilee Joy and Renewed Faith

By Fr. Williams Abba, Parochial Administrator

As we navigate this extraordinary year in the life of our parish, I am struck by the profound sense of renewal that surrounds us. We have journeyed through a powerful liturgical season, moving from the solemnity of Lent and the sacrifice of Holy Week to the radiant light of Easter. This season of resurrection was made even more joyous as we welcomed new members into our Catholic community, their presence serving as a living testament to the continuing growth and vitality of our parish family.

Reflecting on Our Golden Jubilee Milestones

Our 50th Anniversary celebrations have already provided us with moments of deep spiritual enrichment. We have been blessed by:

The Teaching Mass & Eucharistic Deep Dive: Fr. Bill Fournier’s insightful teachings on the Eucharist helped us reconnect with the “source and summit” of our faith.
A Soulful Parish Mission: The renowned Catholic composer Rory Cooney led us in a truly memorable Mission, using the power of music and word to stir our hearts.

These events have not only educated us but have knit us closer together as a community of believers.

Strengthening Our Future: Confirmation

In another beautiful milestone, we celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation on the last Sunday of April (4/26/2026). We were honored to welcome our Vicar Forane, Fr. Greg Menegay, who presided over the liturgy. It was a proud moment for our parish to see nine (9) confirmandi stand before the altar, emboldened by the Holy Spirit to take their place as adult members of the Church. Their commitment is the future of St. Elizabeth Seton.

Our “Church in the Hall” and the Path to Renovation

As you have seen, our physical environment is changing. We have officially transitioned from the main Church to the Parish Hall as our primary venue for Sacraments and prayer. While it is a “make-shift” space, there is a unique intimacy and beauty in our current home.

This move marks the beginning of the long-awaited renovation of our worship space, beginning with the removal of our pews and the tearing down of walls that began May 4. While we will miss our sanctuary for a time, we look forward with joyful anticipation to returning to a revitalized, beautiful church by late fall. This transformation of stone and wood mirrors the spiritual transformation we are undergoing during this Jubilee year.

A Community of Gratitude

This monumental undertaking would be impossible without the dedication of many:

Dr. Kathy Goeppinger: We owe a debt of gratitude to Kathy for her incredible leadership as our Jubilee Chair and the members of her committee. Her vision and tireless energy have been the engine behind these celebrations.
Parish Staff and Volunteers: My sincere thanks go to Hank and our parish staff and the many volunteers who physically moved our art pieces and liturgical items and transformed the Hall. Your hard work has ensured that our temporary home is a place of dignity and beauty.
Our Parishioners: To all of you who have contributed to our Capital Campaign—thank you. Your generosity has provided the essential funds needed to make this renovation a reality. You are building a legacy for the next 50 years.

Looking Ahead: The Grand Finale

While much has happened, the best is yet to come. We are already looking toward the first week of January 2027, where we intend to hold the Grand Finale of our Golden Jubilee. It will be a historic celebration of where we have been and where God is leading us next.

Thank you for all you do for God and for our beloved St. Elizabeth Seton Parish community. You are the living stones of this church.