HENDERSONVILLE — Father Andrés Gutiérrez (above) was installed as pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish during a special Mass July 27.
“It really is a blessing to initiate the new mission entrusted by God and Bishop (Peter) Jugis,” Father Gutiérrez told parishioners during the Mass. “We will continue this faith journey together.”
With Father Adrian Porras at his side, Father Gutiérrez signed documents making his appointment official. He previously served as a missionary priest in Peru.
“A priest is called to be there in the most important moments of your lives,” from baptisms to weddings to funerals, said Father Porras, pastor of St. Barnabas Parish, who presided at the Mass as the bishop’s delegate.
“All of you come to be fed by the Holy Eucharist and the Word of God,” he continued. “The essence of a priest is to celebrate the Holy Eucharist and preach the Word of God.”
— Catholic News Herald