This month, we joyfully celebrate Fr. Tom Lucas’s 50th anniversary as a Jesuit priest, and give thanks for the extraordinary ways he has shaped our parish and supported the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
Our ministry thrives because of Fr. Tom’s loving support. He looks out for us and constantly cheers us on. His encouragement uplifts our volunteers, and his compassion helps fuel our outreach to those most in need.
Messages of Gratitude from Our Members:
- “Father Tom, you are our strength in SVdP. Without your incredible support we would be far less effective! Thank you ever so much—and thank you from the hundreds we are able to keep housed, fed, cooled, and heated!”
- “Thank you for making SVdP your mission for St. Ignatius. ‘Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me.’ Thank you for allowing us to be the hands and feet of Christ in our little corner of the world.”
- “Grateful for your leadership, support, and spiritual guidance. Blessings upon you, Fr. Tom.”
- “Your presence here at St. Ignatius Loyola touched us parishioners and continues to nurture how we practice our faith. As humans, we often struggle with what the head tells us—usually different, if not in contrast, with what the heart feels. That leaves the action phase paralyzed. Your guidance threads these together and invites us to be centered, to discern, and to take action. We appreciate you and pray you be graced with more blessings in your Jesuit calling.”
Thank you, Fr. Tom, for sharing with us a Vincentian spirit—one that sees Christ in the poor, the vulnerable, and the forgotten. We’re grateful for your unwavering voice in proclaiming the Gospel. In a world that often asks us to soften or sidestep truth, your clarity and courage are a gift. May your next chapter be filled with joy, peace, and the same grace you’ve so generously shared with us.