March 26, 2025

Dear Parishioners of Our Lady of Divine Providence Family of Parishes,

With great joy, and trust in Divine Providence, I learned today that I have been appointed to be your pastor, effective May 1st. Father Haft will continue as temporary administrator until May 1st, although practically we will work together to transfer leadership smoothly. Thank you, Father Haft, for holding down the fort and leading these parishes in the period of transition from Fr. Umberg to myself.

I am excited and humbled by the trust that the Archbishop has shown by appointing me to this position. I realize that I am young, but I have had a great diversity of experiences in many different kinds of parishes, in various parts of the world. Do I know what I am doing? Certainly not! But I want to learn and grow. None of us have been through the Beacons of Light process before, although I have seen it implemented with some degree of success elsewhere in the Archdiocese, and I know that I have the support of many resources in our area. I am also confident in the ability of the parish staff to guide us and implement everything that needs to be done.

I am filled with hope for the future, and I have a vision of a Church that always rises stronger from every challenge that She faces. Christ restores all things; He makes all things new, and in Him, we can do all things. The Kingdom of Heaven is within us; we can make the New Heavens and the New Earth a practical reality here, in anticipation of its final unveiling at the end of all things.

These words from the 42nd Psalm inspire me:

I will go to the altar of God, the God who gives joy to my youth. Why are you cast down, my soul, and why groan within me? Hope in God! I will praise Him still, my savior and my God.

We certainly face very tumultuous times in the Church and in the world. Our Lady of Divine Providence will guide and protect us in a special way, who claim her as our patron, as she watches over all her children.

I am grateful for all the dedication and hard work of the staff and volunteers of our family of parishes. I look forward to working with you all, and leading all the people of our diverse communities as we journey together towards our Heavenly reward.

Yours in Christ,
Fr. Henry