Dear Beloved Staff, Volunteers, and Friends of Saint Joseph,

As I prepare to step down as your pastor, my heart overflows with gratitude for each of you. Your unwavering faith, boundless love, and steadfast support have been the cornerstone of our shared journey. Together, we have built a vibrant community rooted in God’s love, guided by the words of Psalm 133:1, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Your unity and devotion have made this truth come alive, and I am deeply honored to have served alongside you.

This final act as your pastor is one of heartfelt thanks. Your dedication, sacrifices, and countless acts of kindness have strengthened our parish and touched my life profoundly. As 1 Thessalonians 5:11 reminds us, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” You have embodied this call, lifting one another and me through your generosity and faith. As I embark on a new journey, I carry with me the cherished memories of our time together. I promise to keep you in my prayers, holding fast to Philippians 1:3-4, “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy.” I humbly ask for your prayers as I move forward.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Father Thi Hoang, who steps into this sacred role. His faith and commitment will guide Saint Joseph forward. I urge you to support him with the same love and enthusiasm you have shown me, trusting in God’s promise from Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Embrace Father Thi’s leadership as he carries out God’s will, upholds the Church’s mission, and leads our parish in its continued growth.

I would like to offer the following prayer of Gratitude and Hope for you:

Loving God, we thank You for the gift of community and the love that binds us as Your people. We are grateful for the shared moments of faith and service that have strengthened us. Bless this parish family and Father Thi with Your grace, fill us with hope for the journey ahead, and guide us to continue shining Your light. May Father Thi Hoang and all at Saint Joseph be led by Your Spirit to fulfill Your divine purpose. Amen.

May God bless you all abundantly, and may you continue to “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

With deep gratitude and love,

Fr. Anthony Huong Van Le, Pastor 
St. Joseph Catholic Church/Mission San José, 
Diocesan Shrine of St. Joseph