Bishop Wester makes a pastoral visit to HAFB

Intermountain Catholic

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Bishop John C. Wester (left) and Father David V. McGuire, Hill Air Force Base chaplain, concelebrate Mass for the Catholic community on base during the bishop's pastoral visit Nov. 17.

by Fr. David V. McGuire

Hill Air Force Base Chaplain

LAYTON — Bishop John C. Wester of the Diocese of Salt Lake City, made a pastoral visit to the Catholic community of Christ, Prince of Peace at Hill Air Force Base in Layton. Father David V. McGuire, chaplain for Hill Air Force Base, welcomed Bishop Wester to the base and gave him a tour of some of the bases facilities and sights.

Following the tour, Bishop Wester met with Chaplain Col. Steven Merrill, the wing chaplain. They discussed individual experiences in ministry, and the importance of the chaplaincy and its ministries to members of the military community.

Bishop Wester and Fr. McGuire concelebrated Mass in Christ, Prince of Peace Chapel. During his homily, Bishop Wester mentioned his personal association with military chaplaincy. He said he was an Army Reserve Chaplain for three years.

Before the final blessing, Bishop Wester thanked those members of the military, those who deploy, and those who remain behind who offer selfless service to their brothers and sisters.

After Mass the Catholic community offered hospitality to the bishop with a Thanksgiving-style meal. During and after the meal Bishop Wester greeted many members of the community, and offered blessings for many of the parishioners.

Christ, Prince of Peace Parish looks forward to the next opportunity we will have to receive the bishop and celebrate with him again.