February 6, 2005

Dear Parishioners,

The first call I received from the Archbishop’s office to become the next pastor of Christ Our Hope was well received without hesitation.  As a priest I hope I come among you to continue Christ’s mission not only through gifts and talents I have received from God, but also through who I am as a person.  Who am I by the way?  I am sure you would be curious about knowing me.

As I go along the way, you will discover whom I am.  Just one piece of description in the parish bulletin would not be enough.  Yet, by telling some of my principles, beliefs and values you will have a taste of the kind of priest you have among you.

I love God and my neighbors.  Because of my love for God and my neighbors, I have made peace, justice, unity and charity the cornerstones of my life. You will discover that I am a person of peace because I will always have strategies to create wholeness and integrity in people’s life or in the life of the community.  You will discover that I am a person because I will always treat people justly.  You will discover that I am a person of unity because I will try to create harmony, to respect and to value diversity of cultures in Christ Our Hope parish.  You will discover that I am a person of charity because I will treat every single human person with compassion.

I think God has given me the gift of listening.  I may not be able to solve a problem, but I can listen to it.  If you have anything to communicate, don’t hesitate to come to me.  If you don’t like my decision, don’t walk away unhappy.  We can talk.  This is your home.  Together we can continue to build our community by reaching out to one another.

I extend my love to all of you as I begin the journey of faith with you.

Father Guyma Noel