Congratulations, Patti!

We are so proud of you!

On June 18, during Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Bishop Barry C. Knestout commissioned as lay ministers six people, including our own Patti Kamper!  All six recently completed studies through the diocese's Lay Ecclesial Ministry Institute (LEMI).

Read article from The Catholic Virginian:
Bishop Calls Lay Ministers to be Stewards, Evangelizers

A Special Note from Patti

Twenty-five years ago, my family moved to Richmond and began attending St. Michael Parish. As a matter of fact, our first Mass was at the Kaczmarek Wedding! After years of serving as a Mom's Group leader, Coal Pit organizer, and a catechist, I applied to join the St. Michael Staff as the Elementary Coordinator. At the time, it was a job that I was seeking. I had no idea what it meant to be "in ministry." I had no idea what a fruitful journey lay ahead. 

Over the years, I have had the pleasure to work with and learn from some of the most dedicated and creative volunteers. I have been inspired by so many families and children. I have witnessed hundreds (dare I say, over 1,000 First Reconciliation and First Communions) and been "lit with the spirit" witnessing thousands of volunteers and campers at VBS!

Four years ago, I responded to a nagging from the Holy Spirit and applied for the diocesan Lay Ecclesial Ministry Institute (LEMI), which resulted in me earning an MA in Pastoral Theology, as well as receiving additional formation as a lay minister. Throughout it all, I have been lifted up by this community, my coworkers, and especially our pastor Fr. Dan. My family, especially my husband Gregg, cheered me on, carried the burden of many of the household responsibilities I used to perform, and edited every paper I wrote throughout the three years of graduate school. 

My experience with LEMI has opened my eyes to new aspects of ministry and provided me with a desire to try my hand at new things, which is leading me to a new chapter in my life. My time as St. Michael Parish has been an amazing journey, filled with twists and turns, highs and lows, challenges and successes, and I am grateful for every step along the way. However, I recently accepted a position as Minister of Christian Formation/Pastoral Associate at St. Ann's Parish in Ashland. While it is very difficult to leave St. Michael Parish, I am looking forward to the opportunity to build new relationships and experience new things! Just because I will not be here every day does not mean I will forget about you all. I expect my family will be popping in for Mass on occasion. I will continue to keep you all in my prayers, and I ask that you do the same for me. God bless you all, and thank you for allowing me to journey with you these past, many years! You have been a blessing in my life!


We will miss you, Patti!

Thank you for the almost 16 years of faith-filled and tireless work you dedicated here at our parish and the community.

St. Ann's Parish is blessed to have you as their new Minister of Christian Formation/Pastoral Associate and as part of their faith community.

Good luck and God bless!



*Patti's last day at St. Michael Parish will be Friday, July 15.