Dear Cathedral Parish and School Family,
This weekend it is being announced that Bishop Stika has appointed Fr. Arthur Torres Barona to be the new Pastor of the Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Chattanooga. Since his arrival to our parish and school community in January 2015, Fr. Arthur has been a great blessing to us all. I am grateful for his devoted service to our parish family and for his friendship as a brother and a priest. It is bittersweet news because we are sad to be losing such a great priest and friend, but we are joyful for the Church that we are able to give her such a gift as Fr. Arthur will be for the people of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. You, as the Cathedral Parish Family, have played a significant role in preparing Fr. Arthur to take on this assignment as a Pastor. You welcomed him with love and joy, and you have mentored him and encouraged him as a priest. You have many reasons to be proud of Fr. Arthur.
To allow Fr. Arthur to continue his recovery from foot surgery, his appointment will begin on October 1, 2020. Due to the restrictions necessary to protect from Covid-19, we will not likely be able to have any large gatherings prior to Fr. Arthur’s departure, but it is my hope that he will be able to celebrate Masses with us as a parish family before we have to say “Adios.” Please join me in praying for Fr. Arthur as he prepares for his role as Pastor and that his transition will be smooth. Attached to this email is the beautiful letter Fr. Arthur has written to the Cathedral Parish.
In Christ,
Fr. David
Very Rev. David A. Boettner, V.G.
Vicar General- Roman Catholic Diocese of Knoxville
Rector- Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus