Parishioners and Deacon Sean Smith welcomed Father Doug Owens as the new pastor at St. Thomas the Apostle during 11:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday, June 2.

Fr. Doug joked that when appointed pastor by Bishop Stika he excitedly replied, "I accept" to which the Bishop responded "You have no choice."

During his homily, Fr. Doug also focused on the significance of the celebration of Corpus Christi Sunday, the Solemnity of the Body
and Blood of Christ.

He challenged parishioners to carry the spirit of the sacred Eucharist with us all week.

St. Thomas the Apostle celebrated a Mass for Peace and Justice on Monday, May 27.

Following the service, a Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony took place at the Veterans Memorial located outside the Parish Family Life Center.

The Most Reverend Richard F. Stika, Bishop of Knoxville, confirmed thirteen St. Thomas parishioners during a ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Mass on May 5.

Joining Bishop Stika were Fr. Antonio Giraldo, Associate Pastor of St. Thomas, Deacon Dave Lucheon and Deacon Sean Smith, who also serves as Chancellor of the Diocese of Knoxville.