Dear Parishioners and Friends,

I am so very happy to be your pastor.  There is such a wonderful spirit in the Risen Savior and

Brandon Community. I am very thankful to be a part of both.

The parish staff -- Kathy, Paul, Carol and Ken -- is professional, talented, and faithfilled.

They come to work with great energy and a joyful spirit.  They make the parish a wonderful environment for work and prayer. We are so blessed in having them.

As I begin my time with you I want to share with you my personal creed that guides me in my ministry:

         -- God's presence is revealed in all of creation and humanity. This is the foundation of our

             being in the world.

         -- Signs of life in the parish are found in worship, Christian formation, community, and service.

         -- The Word of God (Scripture) is integral to worship and every aspect of parish life.

         -- Sacramental life becomes a celebration when all parish ministers work together.

         -- Culture influences we live parish life and parish life influences the way we live our culture.

         -- Christian formation is for all ages and through it we all grow in our understanding of the

             Good News of Jesus.

         -- Sunday eucharist is the central action of parish life.

         -- The sacraments are the normal actions and celebrations of all the baptized of a parish.

         -- The sacraments are organized and celebrated within the context of the liturgical year.

         -- Justice is an integral part of our worship and our way of being present to our world.

I look forward to celebrating with you the high holydays of the Church (Christmas, Easter) as well as the high holydays of your family (births, weddings, anniversaries). All are of God and speak of God loving us.

God bless you!

Father Joe Wagner

Pastor