Archbishop Completes Visit to Eugene Vicariate

Archbishop Alexander Sample concluded a multi-day pastoral visit to the Eugene Vicariate last week, marked by prayer, dialogue, and meaningful encounters with clergy, Catholic school students, university students, families, and parishioners across the region. The visit included stops at parishes, schools, and diocesan ministries and was widely received as positive and encouraging.

The visit began Tuesday with a gathering of all vicariate priests at Saint Paul Parish in Eugene. The day included a holy hour, Evening Prayer, and a shared dinner, providing time for prayer, fraternity, and open conversation between the priests and the Archbishop. 

On Wednesday, Archbishop Sample visited O’Hara Catholic School, where he celebrated Mass, visited classrooms, and joined faculty and staff for lunch. That evening, he met with approximately sixty students at the University of Oregon Newman Center, spending time in conversation with young adults engaged in campus ministry. 

Thursday included a morning visit to Saint Paul’s School, where the Archbishop celebrated Mass and visited classrooms. That evening, he joined a dinner at Saint Andrew’s Parish with thirty-eight young men, ages sixteen to thirty, along with several family members. The gathering focused on vocational discernment and included time for prayer, reflection, and conversation. The evening concluded with a meeting with local pastors and Father Peter to discuss ongoing efforts to foster priestly vocations. 

On Friday, Archbishop Sample celebrated Mass at Saint Mary’s Parish and participated in a town hall meeting attended by roughly 150 parishioners, with additional attendees standing at the back of the church. Joined by local clergy, the Archbishop responded to a wide range of questions concerning faith, parish life, and the mission of the Church. 

The pastoral visit concluded Saturday with a stop at Saint Alice’s Parish to visit the Good Shepherd Catechesis program, which serves children from preschool through middle school. Archbishop Sample also blessed the Saint Mary’s Eugene office, followed by a reception with staff and guests. 

Throughout the visit, Archbishop Sample emphasized unity, pastoral presence, and the importance of accompanying the faithful at every stage of life. His time in the Eugene Vicariate reflected an ongoing commitment to listening, accompaniment, and strengthening the life of the Church across western Oregon.