Our Home Is Your Home: Honoring Seminarian James Duque

Dear Friends,

Blessings.

With heartfelt gratitude, I invite you to join me in thanking our seminarian, James Duque, for the beautiful service he has given to St. Agnes Parish this summer.

In a short time, James has left a deep and lasting impression on our community. At only 22 years of age, he has shown remarkable maturity, generosity, responsibility, and a sincere willingness to serve. His joyful spirit, humble presence, and readiness to help have been a blessing to all of us.

What has moved me even more is the way James remained faithful during a very difficult time in his personal life. While serving here, he experienced the illness and passing of his beloved grandmother. He was able to be with his family during that time, yet he remained close to our parish and returned to serve with quiet strength, generosity, and love. That says a great deal about the kind of young man he is.

I can say with sincerity that James has been a true gentleman, a true servant, and a real inspiration for many. He has given us not only his work, but also his heart. For that, I am deeply grateful.

James, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done for St. Agnes. Thank you for your witness, your kindness, your dedication, and your love for the Church. I am also grateful to your parents for raising such a fine young man of faith.

Please know that the doors of St. Agnes will always remain open to you. Whether you wish to come back to serve, to visit, or simply to rest for a few days at the priests’ residence, you will always be welcome here.

James, our home is your home.

Be assured of our prayers for you and for your family. May the Lord continue to strengthen your vocation, console your heart, and guide you always.

With sincere gratitude,

Fr. jc