My dear family in Christ,

This will be my last "musing" as the Director of The Catholic Center at UVM.  The new Director, Father Luke Austin, will be arriving this coming week and assuming responsibility for this beautiful community of faith.  While I will not be living at The Center anymore, I promise that I will not be a stranger.  I am already scheduled to celebrate several Masses during the coming semester and hope to visit with students and staff on a regular basis as the semesters unfold.  

I first moved into The Catholic Center in May of 2001, and have lived most of the last 23 years at 390 South Prospect Street.  These years have been grace-filled and joyous.  Even when not officially a staff member at The Catholic Center, my regular interactions with the students and regular community members have been a source of constant blessings.  It is hard to believe it but I have lived longer here than in any other home during my life and it will always have a special place in my heart.

I ask that you please welcome Father Luke with the same enthusiasm and welcoming spirit as you welcomed me.  For our students, both new and returning, know that you have a priest who is rooted in prayer, a love of the Eucharist and his priesthood and a desire to help lead you all into a deeper relationship with God.  Please continue to support him, Kim, Sr. Paul Mary and Deacon Bob Begley with your prayers and cooperation as they work with Father Luke to keep The Catholic Center a place of welcome and peace in a world desperately in need of both.

As the 11^th Bishop of Burlington, it will be a joy to continue to support Tha Catholic Center and to help students, staff and community members come to know that "God alone suffices" and it is in Him that we find our true joy and fulfillment.

Pray for me and know that I will be praying for you.

In Christ the Good Shepherd,

+John J. McDermott

Bishop of Burlington