My Future at OLMC

Dear Parishioners, 

I recently met with Bishop Felipe Pulido, who is the Vicar for Clergy. That means he is responsible for (among other duties) the assignment of priests to different parishes.  Last Friday, I was informed that he consulted with Bishop Pham and that I will conclude my time as pastor of OLMC at the end of June 2026.  Also, I was granted a three-month sabbatical (per the policy on priests) which I will take from January 1 to March 27, 2026 (back in time for Holy Week). 

For perspective, this is my 14th year of service here, much higher than the average tenure of a pastor. 

How did this come about?  Previously, when asked if I was open to accepting a new assignment (which is done through an annual form that we priests fill out), I indicated that I was not.  Last January, for the first time, I indicated my openness to change.  For the past 18 months, I have sensed in prayer that what God sent me to do at OLMC was substantially complete.  Recently, this line from the Gospel struck a chord with me: “To the other towns also I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God, because for this purpose I have been sent.”  (Luke 4:43)  

I received offers from two other dioceses to work in special ministries for a period, and those offers aligned with my passion to help the Church particularly through the formation of young men.  I sensed that I should share this personal discernment with Bishop Pulido.  He indicated that while he thought I could excel in either of those ministries, I was needed in San Diego to lead a large, complex parish.   

Where will I be sent?  I don’t know, and I don’t think this has been decided.  Likely, I will know where in the Spring of 2026.  Who will take my place as pastor of OLMC?  I don’t know, and I think this also will be decided next Spring.   

After returning from my sabbatical will be the time for goodbyes and reflecting on and giving thanks for our time together.  Now, I think we should focus on working hard to prepare the parish for a fruitful transition.  

I will have more to say about this in the future, but please know that I have instructed staff to not begin any major new initiatives, including starting new groups or ministries.  I would like us to focus on team building and leadership formation, both for staff and key parish volunteers.  This is a time of consolidation and not expansion.   

I know that change can be a cause of concern, but I pray that you be at peace.  I am at peace.  God has been very good to the people of this parish, and that goodness will continue.   

Yours in Christ, 

Fr. Anthony Saroki, OLMC Pastor 

“Seek first the Kingdom of God…”