My dear parishioners,

A new parish is always a bit of a daunting experience, even for one who has been a priest for 26 years. So, I address you as your shepherd; not as one who has all the answers but as one who seeks the will of God alongside you. I am not here to lead over you but to walk with you. The best chapters of this Church will be co-authored by all of us together.

Clearly, my style of functioning is a bit different, one that you will notice rather quickly. In reality I am an omnivert; an introvert who by his vocation has been pushed to be an extrovert. I am most happy curled up on a sofa all by myself with hot dal and rice, binging on Downton Abbey. But then if only wishes were horses, beggars would ride.

This parish has a beautiful spirit. You can feel the warmth of this community the moment you walk through the gate. I want to first thank you for the love you showered Fr George and I hope in some measure you will share that love with me. Over the days and years, we will share faith stories and grow in faith together.

We must recognize that God has given us all a purpose for Mulund and for the city of Mumbai. In the days to come, we, priest and people will discover it side by side. Let us build a Church that asks hard questions rather than settle for easy, shallow answers

It is true that tradition roots us in the past. But it is our shared mission that propels us in the future. As a Church we may have different approaches and mindsets but we can walk hand in hand even though we may not see eye to eye.

In the days to come, we will have moments to cheer and times we will have to acknowledge mistakes. In every moment, we must lean on grace and lean on each other to get through together.  This parish should never become a museum displaying perfect saints but must be a field hospital for sinners; sinners in need of love and grace. Remember, that more is achieved by conversation than condemnation.

Today, I want to acknowledge the hard work that both priests and people have put in over the years. As I said on the first day, ‘the Church is so clean, you can eat rice and curry off the floor.’ But more than that, the parish functions like a well oiled machine and I thank you all for the years of dedication and service that you have given to the family of St Pius.

As a team of priests, we will now be available in a newly setup office on the ground floor. We ask you to respect our privacy on the first floor. As priests, our doors and our hearts will always be open. Walk in and share your joys and struggles. We will laugh with you and when your heart breaks, we will be there for you.

Fr. Warner D’Souza
Parish Priest, St. Pius X Church Mulund