Transition: Sacramental Minister
“It’s like they’re Vatican III priests!”
That was a friend’s comment to me several weeks ago, comparing Fr. Steve Adrian with Fr. Thomas Kommers.
What my friend was pointing at was similarities between these two excellent priest-pastors. Both of them celebrate the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), with its teachings about the importance of everyone in the church—not just clerics. Both are committed to social justice. Both are skilled preachers and presiders.
And now we are in a time of transition from one sacramental minister to another: Archbishop Hebda has officially accepted Fr. Steve’s resignation. The Archbishop also officially appointed Fr. Thomas as our sacramental minister, effective May 1.
I’ve been fortunate to have overlapped with Fr. Steve for the past three years. I’ve also been fortunate to have known Fr. Thomas since 1974. We overlapped for a year at St. John Vianney college seminary, located at the University of St. Thomas—and we’ve stayed in touch ever since. (Oh, the stories we can tell.)
We’re fortunate to have Fr. Thomas now officially on board. He could easily retire and take it easy, but—again like Fr. Steve—he’s passionate about priestly ministry. He’s repeatedly said he’s been attracted to ministry here ever since he began subbing during Fr. Steve’s vacations over the past few years.
Blowing My Own Horn
The Lex-Ham Community Band is giving a free concert here at St. Matt’s. It will be at 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 19. All are invited. I’m grateful to the Rosary Society for providing cookies and lemonade after the concert.
It looks like the opening number of the May 19 concert will be a brass piece I wrote years ago. I think it’s pretty good. If you hear it and agree, you’re welcome to let me know.
As for blowing my own horn? I play trombone with Lex-Ham. And parishioner Keith H. plays tenor sax. You can attend and say, “We’re with the band.”
Have a great week!
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