More than 150 people braved a thunderstorm the night of Aug. 10 to attend the installation Mass for their new pastor, Father Kevin Beres.
The D.C. native arrived weeks earlier from his previous assignment as pastor of St. Peter Church in Washington to assume the role at St. Patrick Church in Fredericksburg June 25. Lightning flashed and illuminated the windows of the parish’s patron during the liturgy of installation. After Father Beres made the profession of faith and oath of fidelity, he officially assumed spiritual leadership of the parish.
Remarking on the state of the storm, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge joked that there might be different ways to interpret it.
“Maybe it’s a sign that as a pastor, you are going to face some storms,” said Bishop Burbidge. “But I think a better interpretation, especially as I saw the wind picking up, is that it’s a reminder that we’re here tonight because of the Holy Spirit, who will continue to sustain and guide us. We’re not here tonight by some sort of chance or coincidence. This is part of God’s divine time. And I thank you, Father Beres, for your yes to God’s call.”
Bishop Burbidge explained that the installation ceremony is also a sign of the unity, the fraternal mind that the pastor shares with his bishop.
“For his ministry is an extension of my ministry, a sign of my affection, and my pastoral concern for each one of you.”
After Mass, the faithful were invited to a reception at Our Lady of Knock Hall. Families and staff enjoyed meeting their pastor for the first time, while others have been working with him since his arrival.
“We are sad to say goodbye to Father (John) Ziegler but happy and excited about Father Beres,” said Monique Donlon, head of admissions and marketing for the parish school, referring to Father Ziegler, the previous pastor who retired in June. “(Father Beres) is wonderful. He came over for dinner recently with his little dog, George, and entertained the older kids with his ‘dad jokes.’ ”
According to Donlon, he has already made a couple of changes since arriving, primarily adding more opportunities for sacraments. For example, the new pastor incorporated a Mass into the annual back to school meet-and-greet event Aug. 17.
“We are absolutely thrilled,” said Adam Wiedermann, director of youth ministry. “He seems like the type of pastor who is there when you need him.”
Kassock is a Freelance writer in Fredericksburg
