Spiritual and Life Update - Late Spring/Early Summer 2026

Dear Readers,

It has been several months since my last update, and much has changed in my life during that time.

Recently, I celebrated the sixth anniversary of becoming Catholic. In many ways, it feels as though I have been part of the Church for much longer than six years. At the same time, it still feels like yesterday that I first walked into my parish church and inquired about becoming Catholic. The journey has been filled with countless blessings, opportunities for growth, and moments of grace that continue to shape my faith.

On a personal note, my father and stepmother's divorce was finalized in December. Since then, my father has moved in with my brother, Nicholas, and me. While the circumstances are not ideal, we have been adjusting to this new chapter together as a family.

Academically, I am only a few months away from completing my Master's degree. Graduation will certainly be a welcome milestone after years of hard work and dedication. At the same time, I would be less than honest if I said I was not a little nervous about what comes next as I begin my professional journey as an educator.

Change has also come to parish life. Today, I received the news that my pastor, Fr. James Thaikoottathil, J.C.D., has been reassigned as the full-time pastor of St. Sebastian Parish. Since 2017, St. John Church and St. Sebastian Church have been yoked together under one pastor, an arrangement established by Bishop Michael Cote. Effective July 1, that yoking will come to an end.

Our new pastor will be Fr. Gregory Galvin, a seasoned priest of the Diocese of Norwich who was ordained in 1994. Throughout his priesthood, he has served the Diocese in numerous capacities and most recently has been pastor of St. Mary Church in Coventry and chaplain of St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel at the University of Connecticut in Storrs.

While I am excited to welcome Fr. Galvin, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge my sadness at Fr. James' departure. During his nine years as pastor, I have had the privilege of serving alongside him for seven of those years. His leadership, friendship, and support have had a lasting impact on my life and faith.

I will continue serving as the webmaster and video/audio technician for St. Sebastian Church despite the conclusion of the yoking arrangement between our parishes.

Another significant change involves Fr. Juan Aguirre Palacio, who has served not only as our parochial vicar but also as my spiritual director. Beginning in July, he will take on a new assignment in Norwich as a parochial vicar before becoming pastor of the two parishes to which he has been assigned later in the year. I am grateful for his guidance and friendship and wish him every blessing in his new ministry.

Change seems to be the theme of this season. My parish is welcoming a new pastor, the Knights of Columbus will soon elect a new Grand Knight for Forest City Council No. 3, and my workplace is preparing to welcome both a new Superintendent of Public Schools and a new principal. During the current school year, our school has been led by the daughter of a longtime friend who is also a parishioner at St. Sebastian Church.

Professionally, I have submitted a transfer request to the local high school that I once attended as a student. My hope is to gain experience working with high school-aged students as I continue preparing for a career in education. While I remain open to discerning a vocation to the priesthood, I believe this experience would be invaluable for my future.

Another major development occurred in December 2025 when I legally changed my name. This time, I chose a name that more fully reflects my identity and family heritage. I adopted my mother's maiden name as my surname and changed my middle name to honor both my paternal grandfather and great-grandfather. It was a deeply personal decision and one that carries great meaning for me.

Before I conclude, I should also mention that I was elected to the Pastoral Council at St. John Church. Shortly thereafter, my fellow council members elected me to serve as Secretary of the nine-member advisory body that assists the pastor in the life and mission of the parish. It is a responsibility I do not take lightly, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.

As I navigate these many transitions, I humbly ask for your prayers. Please pray that the Holy Spirit grants me wisdom, strength, and fortitude as I embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Until my next update, I wish each of you good health, happiness, and God's abundant blessings.

God Bless,

Anthony




Location: Middletown, CT 06457, USA

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