On Monday, December 1st, Archbishop Zinkula (per Canon Law) appointed Father Jim Secora (retired, Ames) as the pastoral lead of our Cluster and Deacon Stan Upah to oversee daily operations in Fr Michael’s absence. The staff are coordinating and making plans for our Cluster during this time. Truly, we have felt the Holy Spirit at work, and we are confident that we are in His care.
Fr. Secora will join us for Masses and several neighboring priests have reached out to offer help. Fr. Alan Dietzenbach will assist with Spanish needs and Masses. While all daily Masses and Confessions are currently cancelled, we are actively working to provide opportunities for Confession and will continue to update you as those plans take shape. Adoration schedules at all locations will continue as normal. Please continue to seek the Sacraments as you are able.
We know this moment may feel confusing and sudden, and that this news may bring many emotions, especially in the midst of the Journey In Faith parish planning. Please know these events are completely unrelated, and speculation is unnecessary. This decision is simply for Fr. Michael’s well-being. Deacon Stan will be available for questions after Masses and in the Tama office. The hands and hearts of our Cluster are working together and we can have hope for our future and pray for the healing and health of Fr. Michael.
God bless you, and thank you for being a parishioner of St. Patrick, St. Michael, and St. Joseph. Please pray for our communities, for our priests, and for our liturgies, sacraments, and programs. Small rural communities are truly wonderful—and truly strong.
God bless,
Circle of Saints Staff
God bless,
Circle of Saints Staff