Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As I write to you at this important moment of transition, my heart is filled with gratitude. Serving as your bishop for the past two and a half years has been a profound privilege and a grace for which I thank God daily. My ministry among you has been deeply enriching and will remain forever close to my heart.
My transition from the Diocese of Charlottetown to the Diocese of Hamilton has been truly remarkable. I have been deeply supported throughout this time by the prayers, encouragement, generosity, and kindness of so many people, both in Prince Edward Island and in Hamilton. This accompaniment has been a great source of strength and reassurance as I prepare for the next chapter of my episcopal ministry.
During my ministry among you, I grew to love you—priests, consecrated women and men, and the lay faithful of this blessed Island. I sought to serve as a bridge-builder and to encourage a spirit of communion among you: building bridges with one another, with the wider community, and with newcomers. Together, we journeyed through the Jubilee Year of Hope, planting seeds of pastoral renewal which, I am confident, will continue to grow and bear fruit in the years ahead.
I will always cherish the many gatherings, celebrations, and moments of grace we shared, when together we could proclaim with confidence: “Hope does not disappoint” — “Spes non confundit.”
On February 2nd, at 11:00 a.m. EST (12:00 p.m. AST), I will be installed as Bishop of the Diocese of Hamilton at Christ the King Cathedral Basilica. Although I now serve the Church in a new diocese, I want you to know that you remain very much in my thoughts and prayers.
I warmly invite you to join me virtually for the celebration of my installation.
As the day of installation draws near, I ask you to continue to pray for me and for my ministry. Please be assured that I carry you always in my heart and my prayers.
With sincere gratitude, I entrust you to the Lord and to the loving care of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Yours sincerely in Christ,
Most Rev. Joseph Dabrowski, CSMA
Bishop of Charlottetown
