Petersburg Parishes to Become Holy Face of Jesus Parish
PRESS RELEASE:
WAPAKONETA- The Petersburg Parishes of Immaculate Conception, Botkins, St. John, Fryburg, St. Joseph, Wapakoneta, and St. Lawrence, Rhine, are excited to announce the transition from being four parishes to becoming one unified parish.
Over the past 10 years, Immaculate Conception Parish in Botkins, St. John Parish in Fryburg, St. Joseph Parish in Wapakoneta, and St. Lawrence Parish in Rhine have worked together as the "Petersburg Parishes." Now, they begin a new chapter together. Beginning July 1st, 2024, they will no longer be four separate parishes; they will be one canonical parish. Along with this transition, a new name will be given to the parish. The community worked together to prayerfully determine the new name, Holy Face of Jesus Parish.Â
As one legal entity, there will be greater opportunities for collaborative ministry and better utilization of clergy and lay personnel. Because of this parish merger, processes will be simplified and streamlined, which will allow for more energy being devoted to building the Kingdom. Holy Face of Jesus Parish is excited to embark on this transition to seek the Holy Face of Jesus and bring the friendship of Christ to all.
"Over the past few years, our incredible parishioners have worked together as members of the Body of Christ. The Lord has guided this journey towards unity. We are so grateful for so many men and women who have shared their time, talent, and energy. We look forward to the ways which God will continue to guide us. We are excited about the opportunity to offer the intimacy and friendship of Jesus Christ to all in our communities."
"The celebration on June 29th is like a wedding. It looks back on all the people who have prepared us for this moment, then it formalizes our unity and sends us out into the future that God has planned for us, " said Father Sean Wilson, pastor of Holy Face of Parish.