Ten years ago, Fr. Moses Mesh, CSV, and Fr. Jason Nesbit, CSV, graduated together from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago with their master in divinity degrees. Both would be ordained to the priesthood that same summer — within weeks of each other — and now their paths are about to come together again.
Fr. Moses Mesh, left, and Fr. Jason Nesbit at their deaconate ordination in 2010
Fr. Mesh has been appointed parochial vicar of Maternity BVM Parish in Bourbonnais. He begins his assignment July 1, serving alongside his former classmate and confrere, Fr. Nesbit, pastor. The parish sanctuary should feel familiar to Fr. Mesh. Both he and Fr. Nesbit were ordained to the deaconate at Maternity one year before entering the priesthood, and now they will be celebrating liturgies at that same altar.
“It will be a joy to share with him in the day-to-day life of parish ministry and community life,” Fr. Nesbit said.
Fr. Jason Nesbit, left, and Fr. Moses Mesh at their CTU graduation in 2011
Fr. Mesh served the first three years of his priesthood in his native Belize, at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Corozal Town. For the last seven years, he has served as associate vicar at St. Viator Parish in Chicago, where he has been active in leading all aspects of its Hispanic ministry.
“I think the people of Maternity BVM will really enjoy getting to know Fr. Moses,” Fr. Nesbit adds. “I know he will bring a pastoral presence that will help people to be at peace. Our mission is to form missionary disciples who will reflect the light and love of Christ to the World, and I believe Fr. Moses will help people of all ages encounter a God who is kind and merciful.”
As for his own 10-year jubilee, Fr. Nesbit is grateful: “I’m still here today doing what I love and loving what I do. Thanks be to God and so many great people for 10 years of priesthood!”