To the editor:

This next week, Lawrence will be losing one of its most treasured citizens. After nine-plus years of faithful service to this community, Father Charles Polifka, the parish priest for St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, is moving to a new assignment in western Kansas. From sun up to sun down, Fiesta to Oktoberfest, Christmas to Easter, from birth to death and all the ordinary events in between, Father Charles has been a constant source of goodwill and inspiration for his parishioners and the Lawrence community.

He has worked untiringly to tear down the walls that separate believers and nonbelievers alike and has succeeded in creating a warm and accepting atmosphere for all at St. John’s. While an effective preacher, his most eloquent sermons have been his personal example of holiness and goodness. From the entire Lawrence and St. John’s family, we thank you, Father Charles, for your efforts and wish you the very best in the future.

Ray Finch,

Lawrence