January 21, 2010
Dear Fr. James,
I wish to express my gratitude to you for your steadfast dedication and calm spirit as the Interim Director of All Saints Catholic Newman Center. During this time of transition, your witness of Christ's love to all involved is especially important. Please also convey my thanks to the staff. As your close collaborators, they play an important role during this time.
In your recent correspondence, you shared that there is great concern in the community regarding the following statement in my pastoral letter, Serving Truth in the University.
"Given the unique nature of the Newman Center, some of the faithful, such as families and those not directly connected to the university, are best served in a parish setting."
All Saints Nemman Center has a long and rich tradition in the Diocese of Phoenix. The mission statement of the Center indicates that, "We provide a home for students and members of the university in which they can strengthen their faith, develop their gifts and grow into compassionate leaders." Students, faculty, alumni, families and others who support the mission are a vital part of the community. These faithful are important to the community and will always be welcome at the Newman Center. No person who is committed to the mission of the Newman Center should feel they are not part of this ministry to the students, faculty and alumni of Arizona State University. I regret any misunderstanding of the statement.
My reason for the statement is to acknowledge that a Newman Center's primary mission is to focus on the faith life of the university community, as your mission statement appropriately does. Because of this unique purpose, a Newman Center is often limited in the various ministries that are possible and available for families, the elderly and others. In general, our parishes serve a more diverse and wider community of persons.
Please express my sincere gratitude to the faithful of All Saints Newman Center who have supported the mission of the Center through the years. Their commitment to the day to day activities as well as to the capital campaign and building project is a true testimony to their commitment to Christ and His Church. Be assured of my prayers in the months ahead.
Asking God's blessings upon you and the entire All Saints Catholic Newman Center Community, I am
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Thomas J. Olmsted, Bishop of Phoenix
