A Message from Father Garrick, Parish Administrator May 25th, 2024 Dear Parishioners & Friends of St. Thomas More Parish,
As I mentioned in my first address to you on May 4th, 2024, I accepted the nomination of parish administrator knowing that I would have to move things towards the closure of the parish as decided by the Wardens in December 2023 and approved by the Archdiocese in February 2024. As we are celebrating the 80th year anniversary of the parish, it is a moment to reflect on what has been so many joyful years in St. Thomas More and the role that the people of the parish have played in the culture and history of Verdun. So, with that in mind, we are celebrating the 80th anniversary on Saturday June 15th, 20024.
But to move things forward and to avoid any undue hope or expectation that I or the community can change what has been concluded for some time, I will celebrate the last public Mass for the parish of St. Thomas More on Saturday, July 27th, 2024. My intention for this is to begin the process of mourning that is normal for any loss, especially for what has been the spiritual home and community for so many years, going back many generations.
I know this news is heartbreaking and I apologize for the pain that this causes. I am very aware of what this means and would like to listen and meet with anyone who wants to express what they are feeling. The Office is still operating under its usual hours, and is available to take messages for all those who would like to speak about the closure of the parish and then I will call the people back. I want to take this moment to thank our parish secretary of long service, Miss Patricia McIver, for her kindness in receiving the phone calls of those who have been hurt by the impending closure of St. Thomas More.
Please know that after the last Mass on July 27th, the month of August will be spent organizing what needs to be moved over to St. Willibrord's because we want to preserve the patrimony of St. Thomas More. Also, in August 2024 we will submit to the Registraire des Entreprises due Quebec the closing of the parish corporations (the Fabrique) and we anticipate the Archbishop of Montreal to dissolve the parish in the beginning of October 2024.
As more details become clearer, I will communicate them to you all both at Mass and in writing.
Please be assured of my prayers and commitment to accompany you all during this important time.
Sincerely yours, Fr. Garrick Huang, parish administrator
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