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July 2, 2020More than 40 decorated cars lined up on the afternoon of June 17 near Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Lawton for a Farewell Parade to wish Father Brian Buettner and Father Vic Luong farewell. Both priests received new assignments to churches in Norman and Oklahoma City where they began July 1.
The parade was led by the Mexican Folkloric Dancers, who sang a variety of songs in their traditional Mexican attire.
The religious education director at Blessed Sacrament, Alicia Chavez Brierton, organized the event, with the help of many parishioners and church staff.
“Their leadership has been invaluable. The positiveness they give us, the guidance and the leadership, their words of encouragement, their blessings, are just a wonder. I have been so appreciative of the work they have done with us through the religious education program, and that is one of the reasons why we wanted to send them off with a gift,” Brierton said. “We hope they have a wonderful experience where they are going, but we are going to miss them.”
In addition to the parade, Brierton, with the help of RE students, TilaRosa Rodriquez and Arlene Schonchin, presented Father Brian and Father Vic with two crosses made by RE students. The crosses are made from crafting sticks, where each student wrote a message.
“It’s so clear how much people love their parish, love their priests and love their faith,” Father Buettner said. “During the pandemic, people have been very isolated, but I have definitely felt their love and their presence, whether they are watching online or being here at the church. To have the families take the time to come out here was very moving.”
Father Luong expressed his appreciation saying, “I want to thank everyone who has done so many wonderful things for us. Thanks be to God for all the praises and blessings that he has bestowed on us, on this parish and on the people. I am so grateful for everything that the families have done.”
Jolene Schonchin is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
Photo: Fr. Brian Buettner and Fr. Vic Luong receive two crosses made by the Blessed Sacrament religious education students. Each craft stick has a message on it. Arlene Schonchin, left, and TilaRosa Rodriquez presented the crosses to the priests. Photo Jolene Schonchin/Sooner Catholic.
