Farewell for longtime St. Benedict's priest Father Phil Gibbs to be held July 7th

A public farewell party will be held for long-time St. Benedict's priest Father Phil Gibbs.  The reception will run from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 7th at the Oneota Country Club.  This event is open to the entire public—not just St. Benedict's members.

Father Phil moved from Dubuque to Decorah in July of 2007.  Priests usually serve a six-year term, Father Phil is just one year short of serving two terms in Decorah. July 10th will be his last day in Decorah and then he will begin serving at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque.

While he was in Decorah, Father Phil took part in the Ecumenical outreach efforts to those directly impacted by the raid in Postville 10 years ago. He housed four men from Guatemala for about six months.

Father Phil has led the parish membership through an extensive renewal process which increased the number of parishioners taking an active role in leadership and outreach. Part of that process lead the church to the point of doing the addition and renovation to the church.

Evangelization efforts have begun that assist members to be more active in proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ in their own homes and workplaces. These people are inviting others who are close to them to have a more meaningful prayer life and be more present within the worshiping community.

"Over the past 10 years I have seen the parish community become more welcoming to newcomers. There is a vibrancy here now that is not the same when I first arrived. I will miss the surrounding atmosphere of Decorah's natural beauty but also the inner beauty of her citizens who greet each other with friendly waves and warm smiles. Decorah is a real gem that is unique among other small towns. It is vibrant with it's hometown feel and it's openness to economic growth and cultural events. In my heart there will always be a special place for St. Benedict parish and the Decorah community," shared Father Phil.