As was announced last week, Bishop Malooly has appointed a new pastor for St. Christopher Parish – Fr. John Gabage. While I would have liked to remain if that was the decision, I think that Fr. Gabage will be a great fit for the parish. Following the death of Fr. Paul Campbell, he was a great help and support to the staff. As dean (the bishop’s representative to an area of the diocese), he stepped in and helped keep things going. He also was a big help to me and gave me very helpful insights into the dynamics and issues here. I am sure that he will lead the parish into the future and help everyone become more and more a part of this parish family. As we prepare to welcome him, please pray for him and ask God to give him the grace he needs to be a good shepherd.
I also ask for a remembrance in your prayers as I prepare to assume my new position as pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes in Seaford. I am already somewhat familiar with the parish, having lived in Seaford for 5 years when I was ministering to the migrant farmworker community for the diocese some 25 years ago. The parish is about 1/3 Spanish-speaking, so I need to really practice my Spanish, since I have not used it in more than 6 years. I also was living in Italy for 2 years and, since the 2 languages are so similar, I had to make a conscious effort to rid my mind of the Spanish in order to perfect my Italian. God certainly will need to help me as I try to recoup the lost language! They are also preparing to build a new Parish Office Center, so I am sure that will occupy a lot of my time as well. In any case, the next month will be a time of transition for all of us, and I pray that God will fill us with His grace during this time.
 
Have a great week and Happy Easter, everyone. May God bless you and your loved ones!
 Father Giuliano