Rev. Matthew Alcombright asks for prayers as he leaves priestly ministry
WESTFIELD – The Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield is searching for a new pastor for St. Mary’s.
St. Mary’s Parish Pastor Rev. Matthew Alcombright has left the church. In a letter last week, Alcombright thanked parishioners for their prayers during a recent leave of absence for what he called health concerns. He also announced he was leaving the ministry.
“I have begun to address some issues and struggles in my life which has led to healing in mind, body and spirit. During this time, I have been able to face fears, find clarity and seek spiritual guidance with the help of others and, most importantly, my own discernment with God. It was in this discernment that I have felt called to leave priestly ministry at this time and continue to focus on my own health and wellness,” Alcombright wrote.
Mark Dupont, spokesman for the Diocese, said the search for a replacement is underway.
“The process of finding a new pastor will begin immediately. Until a new pastor has been named Fr. John Salatino will continue as temporary administrator,” said Dupont.
ALcombright was named St. Mary’s pastor one year ago after former Pastor Rev. Frank Lawlor stepped down from the position, which encompasses the parish church, a K-8 school, 9-12 school and a preschool.
Alcombright expressed gratitude for the “prayers and support” he received and thanked Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski for giving him the opportunity to focus on his health. He also thanked Salatino for serving in his absence.
“Please know that I do not regret any of my priestly ministry,” he stated. “Priests and religious are called in particular ways to sacrifice their lives for the service of God and neighbor out of love. I love my ministry and those whom I have been privileged to serve, but I now see a need to take care of myself in order to be effective, open and able to do whatever God has planned for me in the future. For this, I humbly ask your understanding and your prayers as I make a difficult, yet needed, transition in my life.”
Alcombright said in his short time at St. Mary’s he could see “the great family that lives and breathes at St. Mary’s in Westfield. You are an amazing community with many gifts and talents, and I am honored to have been part of it.”
He wrote that he would pray for the St. Mary’s community and asked for prayers in return.
“I do love you all and will always be grateful. Your friend, always, Fr. Matt,” he concluded.
Alcombright is a native of North Adams and was ordained 2012. He has served at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, West Springfield, Mary Mother of Hope Parish, Springfield and St. Mary’s Parish in Westfield.
