An Open Letter to Fr. Paul Sullivan, SJ

Dear Fr. Paul,

St. Ignatius teaches us to “find God in all things.” As members of this Parish, we have learned from you that this charge is not just an instruction – but an invitation. An invitation to see God and His active and loving presence intertwined in the everyday, in our triumphs and our struggles, in the birds that sing and the flowers that bloom, and in the faces of all who walk through our doors.

You have accepted that invitation every day.

Because of you, Our Lady of Hope has grown into a more welcoming Parish, one that seeks to embrace all of God’s children. For many of us, you have redefined what Church can be – a place of welcome, healing, joy, laughter, and mercy. You have made this Parish not only a place of worship, but a spiritual home to many. And you have invited us into a friendship with Jesus, reminding us time and again of how much God loves each of us.

Under your leadership, our Parish has grown to over 1,000 households. Our Baptisms have also increased, at a rate of 50% year-to-year over the last five. Our young family group has formed and is thriving; over 25 children are receiving First Communion, Confirmation, and Reconciliation this year. You have modeled for us (and for our children) what it means to be a synodal parish, one that welcomes ideas, input, and questions. And parishioners have flocked to Our Lady of Hope from near and far to hear your message of true Christian welcome.

Like any good home, you have also called us outward – to recognize our God-given talents and gifts and put them to good work. You have challenged us to go to the margins, not so that we may change those we encounter there, but so they may change us. You have encouraged us to be men and women for and with others – Ad majorem Dei gloriam (“For the greater glory of God”).

We will miss your presence here more than words can fully express. We will miss your leadership, your vision, your humor, your relentless work ethic, and your commitment to what is right and just. But we carry forward everything you have planted here, and we are deeply grateful.

As you transition to your next assignment, we pray that you feel – as you have helped us to feel – accompanied. May you continue to find God in all things. And may you know, always, that you have left this community profoundly changed for the better.

With tremendous gratitude, great affection, and the prayers of this entire community,

Megan Arguelles (Pastoral Council Chair 2025-2026) and Jon Hartford (Pastoral Council Chair 2026-2027)

Photo Credit: B. Grala 2025