05/28/2026
Dear Parishioners and Friends in Christ,
I write this week to share two pieces of news regarding parish life.
In Bristol, our long-time secretary and bookkeeper, Sue Grover, has let me know that the time has come for her to retire from the parish office. She has been an invaluable member of the parish staff for over 40 years. I have always known Sue to go above and beyond what is strictly needed, and her love for this parish and community is apparent to all who have worked with her. Personally, I am indebted to Sue for her patience and kindness to me as a first-time pastor. There were many occasions in my first year here when she made timely reminders and walked me through some of the business of running the parish. On behalf of everyone at St Ambrose, thank you, Sue! And may God bless your retirement richly.
In Vergennes, Peter Campono has similarly informed me that he has chosen to retire from music ministry leading the music group on Saturdays. Pete has been involved in church music since he was 14! Pete has decided he needs to make a little more room for other responsibilities in his life right now. In the 4 years I’ve been working with Pete, I’ve only known him to bring his best to prayer and worship and only ever saw his ministry as bringing people closer to God. I know that the folks who have witnessed Pete’s ministry feel the same. Thank you, Pete, for so many years of faithful service to the Church!
In both cases, though chapters are closing, these are thankfully not goodbyes. Sue and Pete both look forward to remaining active parishioners. In Bristol, we are now actively seeking someone to fill Sue’s job. A job description is included on the last page of this weekend’s bulletin and is posted on the parish website as well as the Diocesan website. In Vergennes, I have a few irons in the fire for someone who can take over the music ministry on Saturdays, so stay tuned. Choir members with good voices always welcome! We may have a couple weeks of singing on our own steam, but that’s ok! We will do our best.
Grateful for everyone who builds up our parishes by prayer and good works,
Fr. Marchand
P.S. I am planning on having a Corpus Christi procession with the Blessed Sacrament at both churches next weekend: Saturday in Bristol and Sunday in Vergennes, weather permitting/ Pray for good weather so we can bring Jesus to the streets!