A Quick Introduction from Fr. Doug Taylor Greetings! Happy Easter to all of you. No doubt you have heard by now that your pastor, Fr. Eric Mueller has been chosen by Bishop Thomas to be the next pastor of Epiphany of the Lord Parish on the east side of Toledo, and that he has selected me to replace Fr. Eric.
I have always heard great things about Defiance and both parishes there, so I am excited about this assignment. When Bishop Thomas told me of his decision, he made reference to an old Italian adage that translates as “the right statue for the right niche.” Trusting that Bishop Thomas knows you and me, and that he wants to see all of us flourish in ministry, I am confident that this will be a good match.
I was raised in Toledo at St. Patrick’s of Heatherdowns Parish, and like my four siblings, attended Central Catholic High School. I earned a B.S. in 1987 from BGSU with a major in biology, minor in chemistry, and emphasis in marine biology. I studied oceanography in Mississippi for four years, when I entered seminary in 1991, studying for the Diocese of Biloxi. I attended Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans for three years before I transferred home to study for the Diocese of Toledo in 1994. I finished seminary by studying three years at the Pontifical College Josephinum, and was ordained in 1997.
I have had assignments in all areas of our diocese except the northwest corner, so this is a great chance for me to meet all new folks and explore new areas. I like bicycle touring, and exploring the creeks and rivers in my kayak.
I am writing this exactly 10 weeks before July 1st, so I am very aware of the need to be patient and focus on the work right in front of me. I look forward to introducing myself (in much more detail) to you once I arrive in July. Please pray for me as I pray for you and for Fr. Eric.
God Bless you and keep you safe!
Fr. Doug Taylor
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