Bishop Walkowiak announces new pastoral appointments (effective July 1 unless otherwise noted):
Deacon Nicholas R. Baker, who will be ordained to the priesthood on June 1, is appointed parochial vicar of Holy Spirit Parish in Grand Rapids.
Reverend Christopher T. Epplett, canonical administrator of St. Alphonsus Parish in Grand Rapids, is appointed pastor of the parish.
Reverend Troy A. Nevins is appointed canonical administrator of Saint Stephen Parish in East Grand Rapids. Effective April 8, he also was appointed vicar for priests of the Diocese of Grand Rapids. These appointments are in addition to his current assignment as pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Grand Rapids. The vicar for priests promotes the emotional, spiritual and physical well-being of all priests in the diocese.
The role of vicar for priests was previously held by Reverend Thomas P. Page. Father Page was appointed associate vicar for priests on Nov. 4, 1997, and vicar for priests on Jan. 9, 2018. Bishop Walkowiak expresses his sincere gratitude to Father Page for his 26 years of priestly service and dedication.
Reverend Daniel P. Schumaker, canonical administrator of St. Patrick-St. Anthony Parish in Grand Haven, is appointed pastor of the parish.
Reverend Noah I. Thelen, canonical administrator of St. Bartholomew Parish in Newaygo and St. Joseph Parish in White Cloud, is appointed pastor of those parishes.
Please continue to pray for the priests of our diocese and for new vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and religious life.
