Bishop Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv. will celebrate Mass at St. Mark Church in Eastman at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, September 18. A discussion will be held with parishioners of St. Mark and Holy Redeemer Parish in McRae after Mass until 9:00 p.m.English- and Spanish-speaking members of both parishes are encouraged to attend the Mass and discussion.
On August 22, Bishop Hartmayer announced that Father Daniel Oghenerukevwe, MSP has resigned as administrator of St. Mark Parish in Eastman and Holy Redeemer Parish in McRae.
“Because of a priest shortage there is no priest available for pastoral care at the two parishes,” Bishop Hartmayer said. He went on to say, “Therefore, St. Mark and Holy Redeemer will not be staffed and the doors of all buildings on church property will be locked.”
“Father Oghenerukevwe resigned in part, because of internal conflicts and discord that has existed in the communities in recent years,” the Bishop said. “This is a serious and unfortunate situation that has not been able to be resolved,” he added.
Bishop Oghenerukevwe said that he “strongly recommend(ed) the entire communities at St. Mark and Holy Redeemer bring this matter to prayer and reflection so that a suitable solution may be found to remedy this difficult issue.”