First-time pastor Father Richard T. Carr has only been at his new parish, St. Peter Church in Washington, for a few weeks. But he’s already making a big impression on his flock.
“He’s so wonderful and really humble,” said parishioner Julia Neely. “We’re happy that we’re his first parish (as) a pastor. That’s a big responsibility for us as a parish to help him along and do whatever we can do to encourage him.”
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge installed Father Carr as pastor during Sunday Mass Aug. 16. Previously, the native New Yorker served as parochial vicar of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Colonial Beach. Ordained in 2001, he has served at several parishes around the diocese during his priesthood, including St. Michael Church in Annandale and Holy Trinity Church in Gainesville.
During the rite of installation, Bishop Burbidge presented Father Carr to the congregation, who welcomed him with applause. As a teacher of the faith, Father Carr then led his people in a profession of the faith, before facing the bishop and affirming his belief in the Catholic faith.
In his homily, Bishop Burbidge encouraged the new pastor to preach the Gospel and to build up the ministries of his new parish. He spoke about the Canaanite women in the Gospel, whose perseverance and faith moved Jesus to heal her daughter. “It is faith that allowed Father Carr to say ‘yes’ to this assignment and it is inspiring to see faith flourishing here at St. Peter Parish,” he said. “Dear friends, may these precious gifts of God’s love and mercy and an increase of faith be yours today and always.”
After Mass, parishioners gathered for a celebratory luncheon in the parish hall, complete with sandwiches, deviled eggs and a cake bearing an icing message of welcome for Father Carr. Parishioner Katie Snyder joined the gathering with her husband and children. Their vibrant and growing community is excited to have Father Carr, she said. “He’s just a faithful priest, and we really need that, especially with all these young people,” she said. “We already love him so much.”
For his part, Father Carr is eager to get to know his new parishioners, who have impressed him with their generosity and willingness to serve. “It’s a blessing to be at a small, beautiful parish in the country,” he said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to get to know them by name, get to know the families and really be a father to the parish.”
Maraist is a freelancer from Reston.
