Fr. Cook’s New Assignment on July 1st

I was informed recently by Archbishop Lucas that I will become the pastor of St. Philip Neri-Blessed Sacrament Parish on July 1st and also have duties offering some spiritual care to the students of Roncalli High School. St. Philip Church is located in historic Florence, NE, on the most northeast side of Omaha, and has a Catholic school, St. Philip Neri School.

I have always had a fondness for the person of St. Philip Neri, who was known for his joy and jocularity, prayer life, bolstering of priestly fraternity, and role in revitalizing the priesthood during the Counter-Reformation; and I have had a special connection to St. Philip’s intercession, too, because his saintly memorial falls on the anniversary of my father’s death, May 26th.

Over these next two months, I remain ever dedicated to all of you, doing what I can also to pave the way for your future pastor, Fr. John Pietramale, who will begin his pastorate here on July 1st.

While knowing my future assignment gives me greater peace, it is going to be very hard to say goodbye to all of you, who have become my family over the last six years; I am grateful to all of you for your kind words and support, and for your prayers for my future assignment.