My dear friends at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish,
Saint Paul would often begin his Epistles giving thanks, and what an appropriate way to begin my time with you, even from afar, in gratitude to Almighty God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - for Divine Grace that He pours into our hearts and for the priesthood, to the Blessed Mother for her intercession and protection in the pilgrimage of this life and to Cardinal Dolan who is entrusting me to you as your Pastor.
I came to know of Father Lynch when I entered the college seminary back in 1992 - at the then Saint John Neumann Residence in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. His mother, Mrs. Lynch, took wonderful care of us seminarians and, through her kindness, helped make the seminary community a real home. I can say that her son has continued that tradition and been most kind, thoughtful and helpful to me during this transition. Since receiving the daily parish Flocknotes this past month, I have been edified along with yourselves by how Father Lynch gently, clearly and in an inspiring way has called us to a deeper communion with Jesus through our lives of prayer. He has done this masterfully by highlighting various Saints, the history of the Church, sharing family vignettes and with his wonderful sense of humor.
At an appropriate time in the near future, it will be a blessed occasion to welcome Father Lynch back to allow the parish to express its gratitude to him in person! But until then, Father Lynch, please know of our appreciation for your generous service at IHM and of our prayers for you as you soon begin your new priestly mission at Holy Name of Jesus and Saint Gregory the Great Parish in Manhattan.
As you know, this month I will be finishing up my five years of service to the Holy See at the office called the Congregation for Bishops. I expect to arrive in the parish before the second Sunday of October, where I am preparing to quarantine in my room for two weeks. Until that time, I am most grateful that the Archdiocese has appointed Father Rafferty as Parish Administrator, who has and will serve you generously. Together with Father Thumma, I know that the parish will be in good hands!
Looking forward to joining you and coming to know you, please be assured of my daily prayers for you.
In Christ,
Msgr. Luke Sweeney