Vincentians Leaving Cape Girardeau

A stained-glass window depicts St. Vincent de Paul at Old St. Vincent's Church in Cape Girardeau. Below it, the Rev. Patrick Nwokoye of St. Mary's Cathedral celebrated Mass on Sunday. (Photo by Fred Lynch)

For 174 years, the Vincentians have offered up the bread of life in Cape Girardeau. Nearly two centuries in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. One college, two churches, an elementary school. A long legacy.

And after 174 years, the Vincentians are leaving Cape Girardeau for much the same reason they originally came: to fulfill their calling to God.

In his small office at 1913 Ritter Drive, the Rev. Charlie Prost settles himself into a chair and closes his eyes as he begins to talk about his parish.

Charlie Prost was a senior in St. Vincent's College when I was a sophomore. He was, as were most of the 14 seniors, pretty nice guys. It's shame to see him and the Vincentians leaving - it's sad to hear that the order is not attracting men to the priesthood as it once did.

The church pictured above is where I first assisted as an altar server (Latin Mass) and where I was confirmed. This was back in the day when a kid would ride his bicycle for the 4 or 5 miles in a small town to assist at the 6:30 morning Mass. And we were so very eager to do this - especially after having to "memorize" ALL of the Latin responses and when to say them. The last time I was in the area, I made it a point to go there for Sunday Mass.

We had twenty students in the sophomore class, one of whom was eventually ordained from what I know, and that is Fr. Thomas Essleman, C.M. - he is listed on the faculty of Acquinas Institute, I believe...

Anyway, Bishop Leibrecht of the Springfield-Cape Girardeau diocese will appoint a diocesan priest to the parish which has always had Vincentian priests.

Beginning in August, St. Vincent de Paul will be staffed by a diocesan priest. The process for naming the new pastor has already begun, with Bishop Leibrecht seeking volunteers for the position. The diocese should announce the new assignment by July.

The Congregation of the Mission had such an impact on the Southeast Missouri region - it's sad to see part of that fading into history.

The complete article from the Southeast Missourian is here.