A Letter from Fr. Rizzo

Dear Friends,
 
This is my last letter to you while still assigned to St. Hubert. During the last 12 years I have written you more than 500 letters, primarily through the bulletin.
 
My retirement Mass will be at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 28. All are welcome. I will be considered the Pastor Emeritus of St. Hubert as of November 1.
 
During these last 3 months, I have been impressed with the pastoral instincts of Fr. Mike Scherschel. Before you can become a good priest and Pastor, you must first be a good person, and that he is. He has many skills, insights, and a strong faith life and spirituality. I’m sure that with God’s help and yours, he will be just fine as your Pastor. Pray for him, as you did for me, and support him in this new ministry.
 
During my retirement, I will live in Chicago, and I hope to do more travelling, more reading, savor the experiences in museums and the arts, and enjoy the many blessings of life itself, trusting that God will continue to help me transition into a fulfilling and joyful retirement. Periodically, I will return for Sunday Mass.
 
Thank you for the last 12 years. By listening to one another and trusting where God was leading us, we saw God’s plan for a renovated church, a Long Range Pastoral Plan, a renewed interest in our many ministries, especially RCIA and CMI. We have a wonderful infrastructure for this very large parish, including a skilled and dedicated staff.
 
I have been impressed with so many genuine and holy people in this parish. We have laughed together during the moments of joy at Baptisms, weddings, and social gatherings. We cried together when we experienced some serious illnesses and traumatic funerals. All these moments led us to a deeper experience of God.
 
As I leave you, know that you helped provide me with 12 wonderful years of priesthood and the opportunity to establish new friendships. You helped me see, once again, God’s love for His people. Know that I will continue to pray for you, never forget you and always love you.