Bishop Robert Gruss and the Diocese of Saginaw extend blessings and prayerful best wishes to Father Peter Nwokoye, parochial administrator at Our Lady of Hope Parish in Clare, who will soon be leaving the diocese to serve as a US Military Chaplain at Fort Stewart Army Base in Hinesville, Georgia.
Father Nwokoye, whose home diocese is Awka in Anambra State, Nigeria, has been generously serving the Diocese of Saginaw since his arrival in 2008. In addition to his current assignment, he has served the people of Parisville, Helena, Ruth, Palm and Forestville.
“I will never forget my time and service at and for the people of Saginaw Catholic Diocese,” Father Nwokoye said. “I pray the love of God will keep us united though distanced by space and time as it may be going forward. I have enjoyed the company of my brother priests as well as the laity, especially the people of the parishes I was privileged to serve.”
Vicar for Clergy
Bishop Gruss has appointed Father José Maria Cabrera, pastor at All Saints Parish in Bay City, as vicar for clergy. In this role, Father Cabrera’s primary responsibility will be ministering to senior priests.
Vicar for Ecumenism
Bishop Gruss has appointed Father Kevin Maksym, pastor at Holy Trinity Parish in Pinconning, as the vicar for ecumenism. In this role, Father Maksym will take the lead in reaching out to fellow Christians, as well as members of the Jewish and Muslim communities. He will continue to foster goodwill between people of faith, finding opportunities to partner together and promote unity.
Many thanks to Father Ron Wagner, former vicar for clergy, and Father Jim Carlson, former vicar for ecumenism, for their many years of faithful service in these roles.