Faith: The Rev. Patrick J. O'Connor Retires

On Sunday, Aug. 9, 2009, the Corpus Christi Parish will be celebrating 51 years of service the Rev. Patrick J. O'Connor has provided as a priest of the Diocese of Sacramento, the 16 years he served in Tahoe City at Corpus Christi Church, and wishing him well in his retirement. Join the potluck BBQ at 3 p.m., 905 W Lake Blvd., Tahoe City. There will also be a special Mass said in his honor at 2 p.m. Those wishing to attend are asked to RSVP to the parish secretary at 583-4409.

Prior to his assignment to the Corpus Christi Parish, Rev. O'Connor also served in Truckee, when in 1973 he received his first assignment as pastor. While there, one of the parishioners, Socorro Chavez, taught him to speak Spanish to communicate with and serve the Spanish speaking parish members. With a strong curiosity for truth and learning, Rev. O'Connor also completed a law degree by attending McGeorge School of Law while serving the Assumption Parish. He served Truckee for 13 years until moving to Susanville in 1979.

Rev. O'Connor will be succeeded at the Corpus Christi Parish by Rev. Bob Brooks, who will begin his duties as pastor on Aug. 11. While Father O'Connor's quiet wisdom and quick wit will be missed, the parish looks forward to welcoming Father Brooks to his leadership role.