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…”