What is a Parishioner?

According to the Church, a parishioner is an individual or family who either lives within the geographical boundaries of a parish established by the diocese or is formally registered there. As a pastor, it is both a privilege and a gift to minister to so many people—Catholic and non-Catholic alike. I cherish this calling because it is how I live out my spiritual fatherhood and share the life of Christ with those entrusted to my care. 

For many of us, when we think of St. William—our parish—we think first of the sacraments. It is where we or our children were baptized, received First Holy Communion, confirmed, or celebrated the Sacrament of Marriage. It is where we gather each Sunday, and even daily, to worship God. Our parish is also where we serve one another, grow in our understanding of the faith, and deepen our relationship with the Lord. 

Our mission is guided by three anchors that are central to the mission of St. William: namely, to facilitate an encounter with Jesus Christ, foster commitment to our parish family, and unite us in mission. All our ministries are directed toward facilitating an encounter with Christ. As parishioners, we must ask ourselves: Are we helping others encounter Jesus—both in our homes and within our parish? Do we demonstrate our commitment to St. William through the generous offering of our time, talent, and treasure? Are we encouraging others by our example? 

Finally, are we actively working to make disciples of Jesus Christ—within our parish and beyond? As He ascended into heaven, Jesus gave us this divine mandate: “Go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19). 

We must be intentional in how we live our faith, and these anchors give us clear direction. They are not abstract ideals—they are meant to be lived out right here at St. William. Being a parishioner is not something imposed upon us; it is something that comes from within—a response to God’s grace. 

Each day, as I enter our church and take in the beauty of the artwork, the stained-glass windows, and the architectural richness of our campus, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of St. William. The diversity of our parish community is a true blessing and reflects the beauty of the universal Church. 

My prayer is that each of us recognizes the gift that our parish is and that we grow ever more united in our commitment to it. Taking ownership of our parish matters. You can count on me to be the best spiritual father I can be. Can I count on you to help provide an environment that facilitates and encounter with Jesus Christ? 

Can we stand together as one family and say, “You can count on me”? Together, as one Body of Christ, let us build the Kingdom of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

God bless you. 

​Fr. Francisco Rodriguez III
Pastor