TORRINGTON – The congregation of the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church gathered at 4 p.m. Saturday afternoon for a time of prayer, song and fellowship.

As the soft hymns of worship resonated gracefully throughout the hall, the congregation was humble and grateful in welcoming back one of their own.

Father Steven Vetter, originally of Torrington, was given the task of presiding over Saturday’s mass, returning briefly to his hometown to spread a bit of friendliness, after completing what has been a truly unique and remarkable journey.

Father Vetter spoke with words of praise, and encouragement to both the congregation and his hometown community.

“It’s always wonderful to come back to my home and give back,” Father Vetter said. “It’s a community that’s given me so much.”

It should be noted that on the September 29, 2022, Father Vetter was ordained as a transitional deacon in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Italy. He was ordained by his uncle, Bishop Austin Vetter of Helena, Montana.

Vetter would later be ordained soon after as a Roman Catholic priest on Monday, June 12 in the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck, North Dakota. 

When speaking to the Torrington congregation late Saturday afternoon, Father Vetter offered extensive words of praise, humility, and hope to the dozens of Goshen County residents looking to connect with something higher, while praising the support of the community where his journey began.

“What a gift it is,” Father Vetter said. “Thank you as well to the people of this parish. Well done. Thank you for that. You have formed me in ways we will never truly know.”

As Father Vetter ended a warm, calm sermon, he once again spoke to the congregation with words of fellowship, and reminded them the importance of support with one another.

“Nearly every store I’ve been in since I’ve been back, I’ve offered a blessing. Not one single business  has said no. To be encouraged that way, we should always pray for them and help them.”

Father Vetter concluded his sermon at 5:30 p.m.

If you have further questions, or would like further information regarding Father Steven Vetter or the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, please call 307-532-5556, or visit www.strosetorrington.com.