Navigating The News of Reassigned Priests

Across many (arch)dioceses, there is a season in the church during which new life is born through holy orders. Some dioceses are still seeing a small number of ordinations while traditional orders are flourishing.

Amid the joyful occasion, there is also a sense of shock. This is brought forth when a bishop or archbishop begins shaking the life of parishes through clerical assignments. For the newly ordained, it is a moment to help them get their feet wet as a priest. For the seasoned ones, it is a time to lead a parish or assist a pastor.

I have come to know many amazing priests and I can say for them that it can be a time of shock and confusion among parishioners. Some have witnessed this firsthand in recent years.

One priest who is celebrating his 25th Jubilee this year took time to share some insights on how to navigate the imminent season of change for one’s parish. He also reminds the faithful to avert a potential pitfall that many of us are guilty of. He understands that it can be frustrating and sad about a priest is asked to go elsewhere, yet it is a time to embrace the talents and gifts a new priest can bring to parish life. He will be referred to as Father C. Another priest who is a year oldeer than me will be known for this article as Father M. 

Q: What was it like to receive the news from the archbishop that you will begin a new clergy assignment?

A from Father C: The public announcement usually comes after many weeks, if not months, of conversation and discernment. There are conversations with the Lord, a spiritual director, and the Vicar for Clergy. A new assignment brings both sadness in leaving a beloved community of Christians and an eagerness to begin something new. The new assignment is a reminder that a priest is always sent - his plans are not to be his own.

A from Father M: It was unexpected. I anticipated remaining at my current assignment for a little longer. After time, reflection and an incredible amount of prayer, the reality of change settled in and I began moving.

Q: How did you react to the news when you established yourself at the new parish?

A from Father C: Like any change, it takes getting used to by everyone. There are many things to learn - who leads what group, how does the new parish "do things", and where are the trash bags?  New relationships form slowly as the new parish is also grieving the previous priest. There are many complexities, but we live in hope and in the confidence that God will see us through things. As Christians, our faith is not only that God took on human flesh to save us, but that God is present in places and people - including the new parish assignment. Once I know that God is there, all will be well.

A from Father M: I was sad. I really did love the place where I was serving. Though the place I was going was filed with many loving people, the place I was leaving had become like family. That feeling does not go away overnight. I love the people I serve now but like all things it takes time.  

Q: How can parishioners navigate the season of change?

A from Father C: Be patient and be open. Each priest is unique and has unique gifts. Try not to compare one priest to another or make harsh judgments until the man can be known for the fruits he bears. As a new priest arrives, realize that he may come with a heavy heart as he leaves the past parish and begins anew. On a practical note, remind the priest of your name often and make time to share details of ministries you may lead as you ought not to presume, he knows what the last priest knew in these early months. Finally, pray for him. Seriously - lots of prayers for the priest and the staff and the parish. The devil is always trying to divide and does it through resentment and bitterness. Stay on guard because the Church has important work to do.

 A from Father M: Appreciate that the priest you are receiving will be different from the one you knew. Remember too that while your new priest is trying to embrace you and the parish to which he has been sent he may still feel an attachment to those who he is leaving behind. 

Continue to pray for our priests. Most importantly, pray for their flock that they place their trust in God.