By Catholic San Francisco
Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone formally installed Father Armando Gutierrez as the pastor of St. Finn Barr Catholic Church on Sunday, August 24.
The installation Mass highlighted the vibrant community at St. Finn Barr and included parishioners, members of the parish staff and council, as well as students and alumni of St. Finn Barr Catholic School.
As part of the Rite of Installation, Father Daniel Nascimento, pastor of St. Anne of the Sunset Catholic Church in San Francisco, read Archbishop Cordileone’s appointment letter, and Father Gutierrez greeted the staff and leadership of the parish.
In his homily, Archbishop Cordileone noted that Father Gutierrez is a “utility player” for the Church serving as his priest secretary, master of ceremonies, and working in the Archdiocesan Tribunal office. Father Gutierrez excels in pastoral work, which is why he would be the best pastor for St. Finn Barr, said the archbishop.
Following Mass, there was a reception in the hall where Alice Guidry, the president of the parish Pastoral Council, and Megan Kimble, principal of St. Finn Barr Catholic School, welcomed Father Armando as the new pastor and thanked Archbishop Cordileone for being with them for the installation Mass.
“I have worked very closely with Father Gutierrez for three years as my priest secretary, so I did get to know him very well, said Archbishop Cordileone at the reception. “It means a lot to me personally to be with you today and celebrate this ceremony with you.”
Father Gutierrez expressed his thanks to the parish for their warm welcome and for being at the Mass to support him as he begins his assignment as their pastor.
Photos: Mary Powers
