Dear Parishioners of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Holy Family Catholic Mission,

As you have already known, Rt Rev. Dr James Terry Steib, on the 24th of June appointed me the pastor of St Mary’s Catholic Church Camden and Holy Family Mission Huntingdon. I am very grateful to the Almighty God for this graceful opportunity to serve his beloved sons and daughters in these two great parishes. In the same vein, I express my deepest gratitude to all of you for accepting me, an unworthy servant, to serve you and assist you in your spiritual desire and aspiration to answer your Christian vocation of knowing God, and loving Him in order to be with Him eternally in His kingdom.

It is my understanding that my predecessors effectively executed their pastoral duties and responsibilities in such a way that their relentless efforts and dedication brought spiritual and material growth and developments in these parishes. In addition to that, their holiness in the manner with which they piloted the affairs of the parish attracted new members to these parishes. The new property bought with recent renovation and remodeling of the church, basement and the rectory are eloquent testimonies to this effect. It is my conviction that this positive growth and development would not have occurred without your prayers, support and encouragement.

Worthy to mention is the fact that, this is my first experience as a pastor in United States of America. I know very well that this is going to be a tall task for me due to cultural differences and other factors. However, there is no gainsaying the fact that your prayers, support and encouragement will be my greatest assets as I undertake the pastoral responsibilities of these churches.

One of the hallmarks of the Catholic Church is unity and continuity. Based on this known fact, I assure you that I will continue where my predecessor Rev. Rr. Richard (Joey) Kaump stopped with particular reference to administration and new projects. This does not suggest that there will be no changes. There will be changes when and where necessary especially when these changes inspire quality worship, improve our spirituality and our relationship with God. You are always in my prayers.

May the Blessings of the Almighty God be with you always,
Rev. Fr Anthony Oguadimma Onyekwe, Pastor