Annunciation of the Lord Parish

New Pastor for Annunciation of The Lord Parish
Letter from Rev. Thomas Costa

Dear Parishioners:

After seven amazing years at Annunciation of The Lord Parish and Our Lady of Lourdes School, I will be moving to a new assignment. I know this is very short notice, but my final Mass at Annunciation of The Lord Parish will be the weekend of June 23, 2019. I have accepted my transfer assignment and will soon be working in the new Taunton collaborative of St. Jude, St. Anthony and St. Mary parishes. I will be moving into the rectory at St. Anthony Parish in Taunton in a few weeks. The rectory at Annunciation (which we just moved into), will welcome Fr. Gerry Hebert. He will be the co-pastor along with Fr. Edward Murphy beginning June 26th. They have assured me of their intentions to continue to build this parish and serve the people with love.

I realize there are many who will be upset over the sudden changeover in pastors. Many of us remember the days in our youth when pastors stayed put for 15 or 20+ years. Not only is this very rare today, but it is virtually impossible to maintain given the number of parishes and the number of active priests in our Diocese.

I have promised the school that I will be back to pray with them, kick the soccer ball around at recess, share laughs and celebrate Mass. I’m only down the road, so you will see me often at the school. The school memories of OLOL have brought so much joy to my life and I’m so heartbroken to no longer have a school assignment. This will be my first time in 14 years of Priesthood without a school or the sounds of happy children playing in the background at recess. You will remain in my prayers and with Mrs. Turner in charge you will continue to be successful in faith and life.

During my final weekend, I will preach at all Masses and celebrate the Eucharist with you on the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. The following weekend I will return for a social gathering on Sunday afternoon June 30th in Annunciation of The Lord Parish hall. This week we have several events that were already scheduled and I hope to have some time to share with all of you at those events.

My gratitude to each and every one of you who have made my life as pastor of this beautiful place, an experience of God’s love. I pray that I have fulfilled my priestly ministry by guiding this parish and school family. I pray that God will bless you with every good gift from on high. May he bestow the riches of his grace upon you, bring you the good news of salvation, and always fill you with love for each other.

I don't like to say goodbye, just pray for me and be thankful we have friendships that will never end. Yes, you will have new leaders on your journey, but I’m at peace knowing that you will show them the same love and support that you have given me. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your parish and your school family. I pray for each of you as you continue on your journey and I ask your prayers for me as I follow the Lord. It is hard to leave you, but remember what I said over and over.

“Have a blessed day and know God Loves You.”
Rev. Thomas Costa