(This letter is an example of how impactful a welcoming parish can have on an individual and a family. This letter was sent to Bishop Parkes and has been edited to remain anonymous.)

Bishop Parkes,

My wife and I recently moved to Florida. We were looking for a parish. We attended a few Masses at different churches close to our residence. Well, after Mass we had the warmest welcome from the priest outside the Church. He opened his arms hugged us and said WELCOME. He asked us if we were vacationers or recent transplants from another state. He was personally interested in us. WE KNEW FROM THAT MOMENT THAT WE WANTED TO BE PART OF THIS PARISH. HE made us feel so comfortable and wanted. Our daughter & son-in-law have also become parishioners of this parish.

Sincerely,