Father Robert Hughes was formally installed as Pastor of the Parish of Saint Monica by Bishop Joseph A. Williams during the Noon Mass at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church.

In his homily, Bishop Williams praised Father Hughes as a pastor who has excelled at every parish to which he has been assigned, always leaving it better than he found it through his industry, compassion, and communication.

At the close of Mass, Father Hughes expressed his gratitude for the assignment and his trust in the Holy Spirit: “Those who come to Atlantic City often wish for luck. I don’t need luck—I’ve been entrusted with a wonderful city. I’m blessed to serve such a varied community. I know the Holy Spirit will do great things among us.”

The installation of a pastor is a formal liturgical rite in which the bishop entrusts the new pastor with ecclesial authority and pastoral responsibility. As pastor, Father Hughes now serves as both the canonical and civil leader of the parish, overseeing its spiritual life, administration, liturgy, and the relationships among the faithful.

The Parish of Saint Monica serves all of Atlantic City through its three historic church buildings: Our Lady Star of the Sea (1897), St. Nicholas of Tolentine (1905, listed on the National Register of Historic Places), and St. Michael (1912). The parish offers Masses in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, and preserves a rich architectural and cultural heritage across the city.

For a full gallery of photos, go to:

https://catholicstarherald82.pixieset.com/frroberthughes.../— with Parish of Saint Monica at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church.