Father Andrew Hoover installed as St. Francis de Sales’ pastor

“How did I get here?” asked Father Andrew Hoover, during his homily at St. Francis de Sales Church in Parma. The answer was simple, he explained, “I asked to be your pastor.”

Father Hoover, who was installed as pastor of nearby St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Parma in January 2025, said he was thrilled to be a part of the St. Francis de Sales community as well.

Auxiliary Bishop Michael Woost, who celebrated the liturgy, said as a longtime seminary professor, he’s known Father Hoover throughout his time in formation. “You’re getting a good one,” he assured parishioners.

Several of Father Hoover’s priest friends concelebrated the Mass, including Father Ralph Hudak, senior priest retired, who assists at the parish; Father Charles Cairnie, parochial vicar at both parishes; Father Timothy Roth, diocesan adjunct judicial vicar, and Father David Stavarz, pastor of Holy Family Parish in Parma. Deacon Jerry Blanda assisted with the liturgy.

Father Hoover noted in his homily that in the Old Testament reading, although Jeremiah’s heart was burning with God’s truth, he was confused about the actual mission. He didn’t understand how much God wanted the hearts of the people to turn to him.

And in the Gospel, he said Peter also was confused. He wanted redemption but didn’t want Jesus to have to suffer. He questioned why the Lord had to let his passion, suffering and death happen.

“But, who am I to question Jesus on the prescription for my redemption?” Father Hoover asked. “Who am I to question Jesus’ invitation to follow him through suffering and death? Let us not judge the saving work of God in our lives … Follow him,” he added.

Bishop Woost said Father Hoover was given to the parish as a gift. “And you are a gift to him. I know he already has fallen in love with this community and I hope you love him. Together, you form the body of Christ and as he said, together, you will travel into the future … Together you will grow in faith, hope and love … Thank you, Father Andrew, for wanting this parish and for accepting Bishop (Edward) Malesic’s call to be its pastor.”

After Mass, the celebration continued with a lunch reception in the parish hall.