Bishop Gumbleton leaves parish, urges ongoing peace, justice work

Published: 2007-01-23

DETROIT (CNS) -- Retired Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Thomas J. Gumbleton said he hoped his parishioners would continue to work for justice and peace, as he celebrated his final Mass as administrator of St. Leo Parish in Detroit Jan. 21. "We, as a parish community, must carry on the work of Jesus, and that's what I pray you will do as I leave you," he said in his homily. After 23 years of service at the parish, Bishop Gumbleton was leaving St. Leo Parish just days short of his 77th birthday Jan. 26. He was pastor until Jan. 25, 2006, and has been parish administrator since then. In a letter distributed to all parishioners as they entered the church for the Mass, Cardinal Adam J. Maida of Detroit wrote: "For the last 23 years, Bishop Gumbleton has faithfully served your community and shared your joys and sorrows, challenges, hopes and dreams through Sunday Eucharist, works of Christian service and reflecting on the Gospel of life in today's society." Noting that the bishop would soon be turning 77, Cardinal Maida said, "It is now appropriate for him to retire from pastoral leadership of a parish."

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