When Joyful News Leads to Sadness…

A.J. and Mary Hoy, the Director of Music Ministries and Accompanist at our St. Mary Parish, have shared some great news with us: as they approach their first anniversary they are expecting a new member of their family! Knowing Mary and A.J. over the past two years, I know they will be very good, loving, and attentive parents to their child – both now and in the years to come. We offer congratulations to them and our loving support as they open their hearts to this profound gift and blessing in their lives!

It can be a challenge for parents to wrap their heads around adjusting from a family of two to a family of three, including many practical adjustments such as living space, work hours, and financial planning. Sadly for us, A.J. and Mary have decided to move back to Ohio to be closer to their extended families as they prepare for the baby’s arrival. Since Mary is an educator, they need to move before the school year begins, so their last Sunday here will be August 19th. Last weekend, A.J. met with me to present a letter of resignation, in which he said, “It is with a heavy heart that I resign my position as I have come to love and respect the parishioners that I work with…” I expressed my own regret that we will no longer have his direction or their vocal harmonies leading worship at St. Mary or in our collaborative. In particular, A.J. has brought a strong sense of community and prayerfulness to the adult choir, helped us select the new piano and organ which parishioners have donated, and strengthened the collaboration between music ministries in our two parishes. When Mary moved to Massachusetts after they wed, she too wanted to be involved in our parishes and share her own musical gifts. She has accompanied our choir Mass as a talented pianist, participated in weddings and other liturgies, and most recently formed our new children’s choir. Their presence will be missed, but A.J. and Mary’s gifts have helped our music ministries continue to grow, contributing to the beauty of our worship and building a stronger “Sunday experience” that draws people to Christ and the Church.

If you know any qualified candidates who might be interested in the Director of Music Ministries position, please have them contact me right away.

I’m talking with A.J. to find a way that the parish can honor him and Mary for their ministry. Meanwhile, as A.J. & Mary celebrate their first anniversary this week, please join me in expressing our congratulations & appreciation for their ministry and active participation in the life of our collaborative parishes.  - Fr. Joe