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My dear Parishioners/Family,
As you know, I was appointed by His Excellency the Bishop of Rockford to serve you as your Pastor. This appointment was indefinite in term, meaning that unless I resign, die in office, am removed, transferred, or become impeded from govern the flock, I legally remain your pastor according to the Canon Law.
As you also know well, all of the faithful of the Roman Catholic Church are bound to comply with the laws that govern them, each respectively in their own way according to their offices and status in the Church.
As it so happens, to date, I have not received from Bishop Malloy any written decree at all notifying me of any change in my status as Pastor of Holy Cross Parish, or notifying me of the appointment of a parochial administrator. Until I will have received one that is valid in issuance and legitimate in notification, I have an obligation not to abandon you, my flock.
When I initially sent out my flock note informing you of a change in leadership, it was at the verbal instruction of Msgr. Steven Knox, the Vicar for Clergy. However, since then, I learned that I was acted in error in communicating that information to you, because I have not yet legally notified of any written decrees issued by the Bishop in this regard.
As a result, I ask that you please do not plan any going away parties for this weekend.
I will keep you up to date on any changes in the future, if and when I should receive any written decree according to canon law.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support. Please continue to pray for me, the parish, the diocese, and the Bishop. If you write to the Bishop, please, always remain respectful, at all times, and in all ways.
Thank you.
Jesus, whatever happens, I Trust in You!
God bless you all.
Father James Parker
Pastor of Holy Cross Parish
Batavia