Greetings. Nearly two and a half years ago there was a rumor spreading in our neighboring parishes saying that I was retiring from Saint Agnes. I never thought of or spoke of retiring to anyone. So it was just a rumor. Most probably they might have seen me often getting sick but I was stubborn not to show my sickness in public.
But from the beginning of this year I could not hide my sickness. In fact for a long time I have been suffering from
sleep apnea, blood pressure, diabetes, acid reflex, thyroid, arthritis, bronchitis in addition to my migraines and sinus problems and now fibromyalgia. I have been getting sick very often especially during winter season. Whenever I go to visit patients either at hospital or nursing homes I get sick quickly due to my allergies and very low immune system.
On 7th February 2020 I completed 40 years as priest. In 1969 I joined the diocese of Kurnool as missionary. I was there 10 years as seminarian and another ten years as priest. The rest of the 30 years I spent in Cleveland diocese serving the church to the best of my ability. Presently my health is not good and I am on lot of medications. Due to my sleep apnea everyday I am experiencing fatigue with very low level of energy and high blood pressure. I also suffer from many other illnesses as mentioned above. Therefore due to health reasons bishop Malesic has granted me permission to resign as pastor of Saint Agnes Parish and also granted my
retirement from active ministry effective 1 February 2021.
This year would be my last Christmas celebration ( vigil 4.30 p.m. & 10 am on Christmas day) with Saint Agnes family. I just want to let you know that how grateful I am to all your support and prayers for the past years. You have been playing an important role in my priestly life. Please accept my sincere thanks for all that you have been for me. If I have hurt anybody and caused pain please forgive me. Let us continue praying for each other to become holy, loving and dedicated children of God.
Finally May the Love, the Happiness and the Peace the Holy Family shared fill your heart and home at Christmas and in the New Year 2021. I will remember you and your loved ones in the Masses I am privileged to offer on Christmas Day