Deacon Larry read this at all of the masses on the weekend of May 5th and 6th. 

Over the last 15 months I have been prayerfully reflecting on my experience here at St. Paul’s and its impact on my family.  I have served the archdiocese as a deacon for 27 years, the last 21 in our parish.  Four years ago I became a fulltime employee of St. Paul’s as well with the responsibilities of both Director of Liturgy and Director of Biblical Stewardship.  In addition, I have responsibilities to the parish as deacon, for which I am not paid.  Being pulled in many different directions and sometimes feeling caught in the middle has added further pressure and stress although I feel truly blessed to serve as your deacon.  I have come to find all of these expectations increasingly difficult to fulfill. Time with my family has suffered to a point that is no longer acceptable.

After consultation with the Archdiocese, I have requested and been granted by the Archbishop a one year leave of absence from the diaconate while at the same time remaining in good standing and with all faculties reserved for a deacon.  My previous employer, Wisconsin Kitchen Mart, is welcoming me back to re-assume my position as a senior designer.  Designing and remodeling kitchens has for many years been a favorite endeavor of mine.  Therefore, with a heavy heart and spirit, as of May 11th, I am resigning both my full-time job and my assignment from the archbishop to St. Paul’s as your deacon.  Having worked closely these last months with a number of engaged couples, I feel a moral duty to see seven of their weddings through to completion.  I trust the parish will support me in fulfilling this responsibility.  The last of the seven in mid-October is my own daughter Stephanie’s.

What makes this decision so gut-wrenching is that it comes at a difficult time for our parish and our pastoral staff.  I have no doubt the Lord will provide St Paul’s with all we need.  God is always true to his Word.  But the challenge for us is to believe it, especially when things are currently not what we expect they should be.  In my heart I believe I have given you my very best these past years.  I am acutely aware, however, that I am a work-in-progress.  And so, for those times when my own sinfulness may have gotten in the way, I sincerely ask your forgiveness.  

You sustained me when I almost died; you are a cherished blessing in my life.  May God enrich all of you for your heartfelt love, support, and affirmation these past 21 years!  I will miss you dearly.