The Rite of Installation
of our New Pastor
FR. STEPHEN KLUGE, OFM
When a new pastor is appointed, he is publicly installed using a
special liturgical rite. On April 22, we gathered to pray
with, and for, Fr. Steve. We were privileged to have Msgr.
Ladzinski with us as Bishop John Smith’s delegate.
As part of the ritual, a series of presentations of various
symbols of the office of pastor are made. The first symbol is
the keys of the church which represent the pastor’s
responsibility to make all welcome. The keys are followed by the
Book of Gospels. It is symbolic because the pastor is the herald
of the Gospels, living, believing and teaching the Holy Word.
The baptismal shell is a symbol of the grace received by all
believers at their baptism. The violet stole is a sign of God’s
willingness to forgive us our sins. The chalice and paten are
used to feed and nourish the spiritual hungers of all who come
to the table of the Lord. The holy oils remind us to give God’s
comfort to the sick, God’s welcome to the catechumens, and God’s
strength to the confirmed. These symbols are presented by
various members of the parish ministries and organizations.
Following the presentation of the symbols, Msgr. Ladzinski
reminded Fr. Steven to be a loving Father, and a wise shepherd and
teacher. Fr. Steve lead us in the profession of our faith
and then he recited the pastor’s oath.
The installation of a pastor is a beautiful and moving rite, one
that marks a new beginning . We gratefully thank our outgoing
pastor, Fr. John, and continue to pray for his ongoing recovery.
As Fr. Steve takes on the responsibilities and challenges of
pastor, we are also called upon to renew our commitment to
ministry, to follow in the footsteps of St. Francis and to
strive always to be the face of God for one another.
Fr. Steve’s family joined us and joyfully shared in
the love and pride of this happy occasion.
And to Fr. Steve, our support, love and prayers are with you.
May God continue to bless and guide you always.
JoAnne Reeder, Director of Worship
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