Bishop Gerald Barnes entrusted the pastoral care of the parish to the Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette in April. The new leadership was occasioned by the retirement of Father Antonio Das Neves, who had served as pastor of the parish since 2002.
A reception was held in the parish hall following the Mass with food and fellowship.
“It was a wonderful experience,” said Gayle DeAgro, office manager at the parish. “He has brought a breath of fresh air to the parish.”
Since beginning his ministry at the parish in July, Fr. Costales has introduced the community to the devotion of Our Lady of La Salette, his religious community’s namesake. The parish has welcomed the story and history of Our Lady of La Salette and celebrated her feast day for the first time in September.
“Father Fred is a blessing to us,” DeAgro said. “He has great ideas and is a good minister to the people. What more could we ask for?”
Founded in 1852 by Bishop de Bruillard, Bishop of Grenoble in France and based on Mary’s message at La Salette, the La Salette Missionaries principally aim to preach the Word of God, exercise the Ministry of Reconciliation, celebrate the Eucharist, and to deepen people’s awareness of God’s ongoing call to repentance. The La Salette priests are also currently serving at St. Christopher Parish in Moreno Valley.