Fr. Andrew Says Farewell to St. Lawrence O’Toole

Father Andrew (left) and Father McKeon reminisce following the special Mass at St. Lawrence. The Rev. Andrew Gyabaah has left his mark on the St. Lawrence O’Toole Catholic parish.

Father Andrew will be returning to his native Ghana next month after spending the past nine years at the Brewster church under the leadership of three priests—the Rev. Robert DeJulio, the Rev. Rees Doughty, and the current church pastor, the Rev. Robert McKeon. Last Sunday the congregation celebrated Father Andrew’s time in Putnam County.

“Many parishioners have expressed their fondness for you and how you handled your priestly service, whether officiating over the loss of a family member, performing a wedding or delivering a daily homily. You have been an integral part of our church family over the years and your presence will be missed while being remembered for many, many years to come,” said Father McKeon.

Dedicated members of the parish lauded the spiritual leader. Drew and Maureen Durkin described Father Andrew as a “special man.”

Christina Grant talked about Father Andrew’s “guidance and compassion” during the recent passing of both her parents. “Father delivered his service from the heart. He was a messenger of God,” she said adding: “While priests from local parishes to the Vatican have been accused of wrongdoing, one must keep in mind that faith must be kept focused on what we are taught and not allow the imperfections of others to affect our belief.”

Father Andrew thanked God during the Mass for the privilege to serve him as well as the parishioners at St. Lawrence: “Thank you all for your friendship, generosity, kindness, love and support. I thank my fellow priests and deacons for all you have taught me and how you welcomed me.”

Father Andrew also applauded the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Daughters, Franciscan Brothers, and his brother priest, Father Nanna, who he said “taught me so much. I ask the Lord to bless St. Lawrence O’Toole Church. I will continue to pray for each of you each day because one day we will meet again.”

Several months ago, the church bulletin asked if any member of the congregation had a secondhand car they were considering selling since the priest needed a set of wheels when he returned to Ghana.

Instead of receiving an “old clunker” the response received by the priest in cash donations was so overwhelming that Father Andrew will now be able to purchase a new subcompact when he returns to his native land for the first time in nine years this summer.