FROM OUR NEW PASTOR,
FATHER JAMES SCHIBI
Dear St. Francis of Assisi parish family,
Peace and blessings to you!
It is with great joy and deep gratitude to God that I introduce myself to you as your new pastor. My name is Fr. James Schibi and I am truly honored to begin this new journey in my priesthood with you here at St. Francis of Assisi Parish.
Just a few things about myself. I was born and raised in Parsons, Kansas, and I am one of eleven children—so community and family have always played a central role in my life. My father’s name is Vincent, and my mother’s name is Mary. For brevity’s sake, I will not list all my siblings. I’m sure you’ll get to meet all of them at some point. We may have to section off a part of the Church to fit my family if they all come to one of my Masses here. I was blessed with a strong Catholic upbringing, and for this I give credit to my wonderful parents. I enjoy spending time with family and going home to experience what I call “beautiful chaos.” I also enjoy being outside and playing sports. As you may have heard, all of my family are big baseball fans, and we host what we call the Schibi Classic on the Fourth of July every year. Many priests and seminarians come from all over to play. My brothers and my Dad and I built a full size baseball field in our backyard where we play. Next year, if he’s not too busy, I am planning on inviting Pope Leo.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving in a couple of parishes across the diocese, and each community has helped shape my priesthood in many ways. I was an associate at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton from 2018 to 2021, and the pastor of Holy Name in Coffeyville from 2021 until now.
As I now join the St. Francis of Assisi family, I come with an open heart, ready to walk with you in faith. I am excited to get to know you, to pray with you, and to serve you as your pastor and shepherd. Inspired by the humility and love of our patron, St. Francis, I hope we can grow together in holiness, deepen our love for Christ and His Church, and be a light of faith to all those we encounter.
Please pray for me, as I will certainly be praying for all of you. I look forward to the days ahead with great hope and anticipation.
In Christ’s peace,
Father James Schibi, Pastor