Families of Parishes
As a Family of Parishes
Our Vision Statement is
We are a diverse family of parishes comprised of The Church of the Transfiguration, Divine Providence Lithuanian, Our Lady of La Salette, and Our Mother of Perpetual Help. We value each parish community, and we celebrate our unique heritages and traditions. Together, we strive to:
Foster Unity
Embrace our differences to strengthen our bond as a family.
Promote Inclusivity
Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and loved in our spiritual home.
Nurture Growth
Support the spiritual, educational, and personal faith development of all our members.
Serve with Compassion
Reach out to those in need, embodying the love and mercy of Christ in our actions.
Celebrate Together
Cherish our shared faith through worship, sacraments, and joyful gatherings.
By living these values, we aim to build a vibrant and united family of parishes, shining the light of Christ in our wider community.
CLERGY
Fr. Jeffrey Scheeler, OFM
Moderator Transfiguration and Our Lady of La Salette Church
Fr. Paul Chateau
Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish
Fr. Raphael Ozoude, OFM Transfiguration
Rev. Mr. Daniel M. Darga
Our Lady of La Salette Church
Rev. Mr. Clem Stankiewicz (Retired)
WHAT DO OUR PRIESTS SAY ABOUT THE FAMILY?
We remain separate parishes with our unique styles, flavors, and cultures, and so we are enriched by one another! But we are asked to work together as much as we can, sharing programs and even personnel. The archdiocese no longer uses the title “pastor” for us, but the unusual Latin-based canonical term “priests-in-solidum.” Basically, that means we are to work together “in solidarity,” as a team. So, we try to help each other out! Each priest has pastoral responsibility for all four parishes, but we have agreed by covenant who will take the lead at each parish.
-Fr. Jeff Scheeler
The Family of Parishes structure was and is a change for all of us. It was not a change any of us sought. Initially, I was not enthusiastic. Some of you may feel the same way. I was comfortable and knew my parish and parishioners. There was a familiarity. I viewed Family of Parishes as pushing me outside of my comfort zone. I thought it simply meant more meetings, expanded responsibilities, more work and additional costs all while at the same time having responsibility for a parish with two worship locations. Now, I recognize and appreciate that there have been many blessings. On a personal level getting to know Fr. Jeff, Fr. Patrick and Fr. Tomas has been necessary, useful and very helpful. I consider them all friends and true partners in mission and ministry.
-Fr. Paul Chateau
June Family of Parishes Prayer
In honor of our country's 250th birthday, the Bishops of the United States will consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 12, the feast of the Sacred Heart. We can join them during the month of June which is also the month of the Sacred Heart with this prayer.
O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:
You know the longings of our hearts, and you desire that we enjoy friendship with you.
From your pierced side, you have poured out the wellspring of life for which we thirst. Your heart burns with a love for all people to return to a right relationship with you.
We celebrate the abundant gifts you have given this nation, founded on the self-evident truths that our Creator has endowed all people with the right of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
We make a reparation for the offenses against you and against human dignity that have taken place in this nation.
May our hearts be united to yours, so that our families and communities enjoy peace and happiness; may broken relationships be reconciled, injustices repaired, and the wounds of our land be healed.
May your holy Catholic Church serve as a sign, pointing all people to our infinite love.
O Desire of Nations and Center of History, we ask you to bless these United States of America. Who live and reign with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us! Immaculate Heart of Mary Pray for us!
