By John Rohlf, The Message assistant editor
Father Eugene Schmitt celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving this past weekend, a few days ahead of his 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.
Father Schmitt celebrated the Mass May 31 at St. Wendel Parish in St. Wendel. The Mass also celebrated the 25th anniversary of priesthood ordination for Father Robert Guerra, a priest from Texas.
Bishop Joseph M. Siegel attended the Mass. Several diocesan priests concelebrated the Mass.
“When I thought about doing this, it truly for me is a Mass of Thanksgiving to thank all of the people who have gotten me to this point. And to thank God,” Father Schmitt said.
Father Schmitt said he also thinks the Mass was a good way to promote vocations.
Father Schmitt stressed it is critical in our world for parents, grandparents and siblings to offer support in your vocation.
“I remember when I told my dad I was thinking about going to seminary,” Father Schmitt said. “And he said you know what Eugene, we will be thrilled if you go to seminary. But he said even if it doesn’t work out, we will love you just as much… That’s the answer you need to give our sons and daughters. That we’re with you either way.”
Father Schmitt said it is great to be a part of the brotherhood of priests in the diocese. Everyone is there for each other, supports each other and is there to strengthen each other through the good times and bad times, Father Schmitt said.
Father Schmitt thanked several diocesan priests for their support throughout his time of priestly ministry to the diocese.
Father Schmitt also said all the parishioners and staff at his parishes have worked together. It is a team effort in any parish, he said.
“Parishioners, we’re called to minister to them but in many ways, they minister to us too,” Father Schmitt said. “I know they did to me and I think my brothers would say the same things. You’re called to be there for them in their most important moments of their life but in that process, you give threefold back.”
Father James Koressel, who served as homilist at the Mass, said all were gathered to thank Father Schmitt and Father Guerra for their acceptance of the call of Christ to be priests.
“Thank you Father Eugene, Father Robert, for saying yes to God’s plan for you in his church,” Father Koressel said in his homily. “You have received countless blessings and bestowed countless blessings on God’s people over the last 25 years. May that same God help you to continue to discover new gifts and talents as you spend your lives in his service. May God bless and reward you forever.”