Holy Family parishioners plead on pastor's behalf

Holy Family Catholic Church in Inverness will celebrate its pastor's 35th anniversary as a priest Sunday.

But for some parishioners the milestone is bittersweet.

Though the church will honor the Rev. Patrick Brennan's many accomplishments, it's also lamenting -- and fighting -- his coming departure.

The beloved pastor's 14-year tenure will end in June 2009 unless the Archdiocese of Chicago reconsiders and extends his term an extra year.

"I have to respect the wisdom of the cardinal," Brennan said. "… If they say the best thing for our parish is for me to move, I guess I have to accept it."

Parishioners want Brennan, 61, to stay at least long enough to see the completion of a $9 million Center for Children, Youth and Families that will bear his name.

Cardinal Francis George has already denied the request.

"Many people of the parish are concerned about the future and hope the great things that go on will continue," said Rita Presnowski, the church's director of operations.

Though membership at most Catholic churches is declining, she noted Holy Family's has grown in recent years, for which she credits Brennan.

Typically, a pastor is limited to two six-year terms in one parish. A term can be extended for one to three years. Brennan got a two-year extension last year, meaning he'll have spent 14 years at Holy Family by June 2009.

Brennan said exceptions have been made before, and his situation should warrant one as well.

Archdiocesan officials said a final decision would be made after evaluations are done next February, though they could notify Holy Family earlier if they elect to extend Brennan's tenure.

Colleen Dolan, director of communications for the archdiocese, said that in rare, "extraordinary" occasions -- such as when a building projects is taking place or because of medical issues --the cardinal grants extensions. She could think of three or four such examples.

"Then it's time for them to move on," Dolan said.

Brennan proposed that he could mentor a replacement pastor if given an extra year. He added he'd like to stay even after his tenure ends as a pastor emeritus when he turns 65.

Longtime parishioner Tim O'Brien of Inverness called Brennan a dynamic priest who motivates members.

He's also known for his social service work, such as establishing a PADS site for the homeless at the church on Sunday nights. That came despite opposition from some fearful community members, Brennan said.

O'Brien said the economy has changed over the last two years, which has delayed the church construction project. He hoped the cardinal would take that into account and grant Brennan an extra year.

"I think walking out of here in 2009 with half the building up would be unsatisfying," Brennan said.