The news came unexpectedly—Father Carlos is leaving St. Therese Parish to minister to two parishes and a school in Derby. We were in a state of shock. He has been our pastor for only two years, and we thought he would be with us for a longer period. But God had other plans for this dynamic young priest.
St. Therese was his first church as a pastor. Father Carlos shepherded us through the difficult years of COVID, he spearheaded the installation of a much-needed new sound system and improvements to the church’s physical plant. Most importantly, Father brought us together by fostering many spiritual growth opportunities. This positive Spirit was manifested in many ways, especially in the many parishioners who volunteered their time and talents to the parish.
The relocation and renovation of the St. Therese and St. Bernard Chapel was an accomplishment that Father will be remembered for in the years to come. This chapel was a project of love completed by volunteers who gave of their time to complete it. A very special thank you to Bob McGurn and his assistant Chuck Brush for the matching solid cherry chapel furnishings; to the very talented Shirley Blyther, for her design and construction of the stained-glass windows, and to Harry Attianese, for the donation of the new flooring and its installation. The chapel was officially opened on Dec. 3 and Father Carlos and the faithful worshiped in the beautiful new chapel on weekday mornings.
There are people who come into your life and make an indelible mark on your heart. Father Carlos touched many people—not only in St. Therese Parish but also wherever he ministered. He has a pure heart, a gentle soul that is rooted in our Lord, and a love of family and friends that is strong and deep. His handsome smile and his positive demeanor welcome everyone who comes in contact with him. The people in Derby will love him as we do. We will miss him.
Adios, Padre Carlos. Hasta la proxima.