Walking Together: Pastor Transition
As Fr. Terry has shared, our journey of transition here at Holy Family has begun. The process will unfold in three distinct phases. Each phase offers us an opportunity to reflect on who we are as a faith community, strengthen our parish, and prayerfully discern where the Holy Spirit is leading us.
A Message from Fr. Terry
Phase One: Strengthening Our Foundation
Now through July 2027
We are currently in Phase One, which will continue until Fr. Terry begins his sabbatical in July 2027.
During this time, our focus is on strengthening our many parish ministries and leadership structures while creating meaningful opportunities for parishioners to share their hopes, dreams, and vision for Holy Family’s future, as many of you have already shared in the Conversations in the Spirit.
This is an important time of listening, discernment, and preparation as we build upon the strong foundation of our parish community.
Phase Two: Listening and Preparing for New Leadership
July 2027 through January 2028
Phase Two will take place from July 2027 through January 2028, while Fr. Terry is on sabbatical.
During his absence, the Archdiocese will appoint a Parish Administrator to provide pastoral leadership so that the work and daily operation of our parish will continue as usual.
Throughout these months, we will continue to invite your thoughts, insights, and feedback as we develop our Parish Profile. This profile will reflect who we are as a community, what makes Holy Family special, and the qualities we hope to see in our next pastor.
Phase Three: Celebrating Our Past and Embracing Our Future
January through June 2028
Phase Three will take place from January through June 2028, following Fr. Terry’s return.
This will be a particularly meaningful time for our parish as we celebrate the extraordinary gift and blessing Fr. Terry has been to Holy Family.
We will have many opportunities to express our gratitude, share memories, and honor his years of faithful and inspiring leadership. These celebrations will include a retirement banquet on June 23, 2028, and a special weekend of celebration culminating on July 2, 2028.
We also anticipate that during this time, Cardinal Cupich will officially appoint Holy Family’s next pastor, who will begin his ministry in July 2028.
Walking Together Into Our Future
“Walking Together Into Our Future” marks the beginning of a new chapter in Holy Family’s story.
As we welcome new pastoral leadership, we will continue building upon the spirit of community, hospitality, inclusion, social justice, and faith that has shaped Holy Family throughout the years.
While leadership may change, our mission remains the same: to be a vibrant community of faith, inviting all to New Life in Christ through sacramental living, transformative worship, lifelong spiritual growth, and service to others.
Communication, Participation, and Prayer
Throughout this entire journey, communication, participation, and prayer will be essential.
We are committed to keeping you informed, listening to your voices, and providing opportunities for everyone to participate in shaping our future.
Most importantly, we invite you to remember that this is not simply a transition from one pastor to another. It is a sacred opportunity for all of us to reflect on who we are, celebrate where we have been, and embrace where God is calling us next.
Together, guided by the Holy Spirit, we will continue to walk in faith, hope, and trust in God’s promise of new life.
Experience New Life in Christ