Marshalltown has been my home for the last nine years. I came as the result of my being appointed pastor of St. Mary Catholic Church. It has been an honor to be part of Marshalltown and the surrounding communities. My life has been enriched by the diversity of people. I have worked with people from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, Sudan, Palau, Burma, etc. The support of our life long parish members has been a blessing for me. I have appreciated the times that our Christian community has worked together. The support given to our Hispanic Community after the immigration raid at Swift and Co. on Dec. 12, 2006 was outstanding. Sharing the same block with the Presbyterian Church and having their good will and assistance in a time of need for our school is a gift that I will always remember. Collaborating with St. Henry Parish to build and refurbish buildings on the St. Henry site for a new St. Francis Catholic Christian School and Faith Formation Center has been a good experience. I hope to return for the dedication.

Our working relationship with our neighbors at Thompson True Value and Emerson Process Management – Fisher Controls has been excellent.

I look forward to seeing Marshalltown Progress with a new hospital, a new Alliant Power Plant, renovation of the Roundhouse, a new Christian school, a new fire station and a new police station.

Thank you to Marshalltown and the surrounding communities for giving me great memories and a wonderful farewell gathering at the Impala. My prayers and blessings to all as you build for a better future.

– “Fr. Jim or Padre Jaime”