A New Shepherd

On Sunday, Sept. 25, I was privileged to attend the Installation Mass of Father Robert J. Bubel as pastor of St. Mary/Holy Name of Jesus and St. Peter parish in Kingston. Auxiliary Bishop Dominick Lagonegro administered the Rite of Installation. 

I have attended this parish my entire life, and this Mass ranks among the most beautiful and moving. It brought back many thoughts of my loved ones who gathered in this church during many decades to praise God in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. I think many of the people in the church had the same sentiments.

A touching moment was when the bishop recalled that Father Bubel had been his altar server when he was a young priest.  

After Father Bubel recited the pastor’s oath, the bishop took his hand and escorted him to the celebrant’s chair at which time those present showed their love and support with very loud and long applause. The Mass included the participation of all parish organizations as well as the presentation of the signs of the pastoral office. Everything was carried out with solemnity and reverence.  

At the end of the Mass, Bishop Lagonegro thanked those who were involved in planning this event, and he then recognized Father Bubel’s parents, Maureen and Joseph Bubel, and praised them for being the instruments that helped to spark his vocation to the priesthood.     

As I listened to the beautiful music, and the words of both Bishop Lagonegro and Father Bubel, I felt proud to be a Catholic, nostalgic for the memories that flooded my heart and thankful for our new pastor. There were smiles, laughter and tears, but most of all there was a bond of love and a sense of belonging on the part of all.

We were honored to help Father Bubel celebrate his special day. We are so fortunate that Cardinal Dolan chose him to be our shepherd.

Jean Steuding

Kingston