St. Bartholomew Parish welcomes Father Schultz as its fifth pastor

After serving St. Bartholomew Parish in Middleburg Heights as administrator for 14 months, Father Patrick Schultz is settling into a new role: fifth pastor of the busy parish, which includes a school. He was installed on Aug. 1 by Bishop Edward Malesic.

“And now, this weekend, with my installation, my heart relaxes into the reality that I have been hoping and praying for: you are my family. I am yours,” he told parishioners, comparing his position as pastor to that of a new father. “I am so privileged to be your father and shepherd.” He said the day, while exciting, also carries a great deal of responsibility and he pledged –  with the help of the staff, advisors and parishioners – to do his best.

Father Schultz said he is “just one guy, a man raised by (his parents) Rick and Michelle Schultz.” Reflecting on the Gospel story of the five loaves and two fish, he said “It’s never enough unless it’s in the hands of Jesus.” He compared all sorrows and successes to the loaves and fish, urging the faithful to “give it over to Jesus. Put into his hands, it becomes something you can’t describe … that’s where I want to be for you … Jesus wants to awaken your real hunger for life, love, communion, peace and more … The hand of the Lord feeds us … You can’t separate us from the love of Jesus. I am so excited, honored, humbled – and scared – I am just five loaves and two fish in the hands of Jesus, and that’s where I want to be,” he added.

Bishop Malesic said the Church exists to lead people to Jesus Christ and today, the Church entrusts this parish to Father Schultz “in a new, more stable role as your pastor … Your parish and staff want you to succeed … Every pastor must learn to recognize the face of Jesus in every parishioner,” the bishop said. “See Christ in them, serve them and let them see Christ in you.”

He reminded the faithful that a parish must do three things: worship, serve those in need and evangelize. “Do these three simple things and St. Bartholmew will be around for a long time. Remember, five loaves and two fish are not much – except in the hands of God.”

Several priest friends of Father Schultz concelebrated the installation Mass, including Father Andrew Turner, president/rector of Borromeo and Saint Mary seminaries.

A reception took place after Mass in Saunders Hall.

Click here to learn more about St. Bartholomew Parish, which was established in 1956.