Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

The Diocese of Springfield has announced a series of appointments and changes within its clergy, effective August 19, 2024.

Reverend Jeffery A. Grantis has been appointed as the Pastor Emeritus of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Springfield, Illinois. Reverend Michael Friedelis will take over as the Pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish, coming from his previous roles at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish and Saint Thomas the Apostle Parish in Decatur, Illinois. He will also continue to serve as a member of the College of Consultors and Censor librorum.

Another significant appointment is that of Reverend J. Braden Maher, who is set to become the Pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Decatur, Illinois, and Chaplain at Millikin University. Reverend Maher recently completed Spanish language studies at Middlebury Language Schools and will be transitioning from his current positions in the Mattoon Deanery.

These changes are part of a broader reorganization within the Diocese of Springfield, with various priests being reassigned to different parishes and roles. The appointments aim to ensure the continued spiritual care and guidance for the Catholic community in the region.

Other changes include the appointment of Reverend Michael Berndt as Pastor of Saint Charles Borromeo Parish in Charleston, Illinois, and Reverend Peter Chineke as the new Pastor of Saint Jude Parish in Rochester, Illinois.

The Diocese of Springfield continues to work towards fulfilling its mission of serving the faithful and fostering spiritual growth within the community.

The recent announcements reflect the ongoing commitment of the Diocese to provide pastoral leadership and support to its parishes and congregants.