The Rev. Robert Fambrini this month celebrated his first full year at St. Francis Xavier Parish and School in Phoenix.

The pastor reflected upon his time there in a recent column in the parish's Aug. 16 bulletin.

"It has been a year of adjustment, change and challenge," Fr. Fambrini said in his column published in the bulletin.

Fambrini also expressed gratitude to the parish and its staff, the Jesuit community, the school's community and others.

"This is the longest time I have lived out of state in my time as a priest and in the process I have come to like the desert, the slower pace and the fact that, even before COVID, I hardly use my car," Fambrini continued. "Nice to live so close to work! (PS: I am not missing San Jose.)" He also noted that St. Francis Xavier is "different from any of the other four parishes of which I was pastor."

Fambrini appreciated how much support he has received from so many, particularly during the ongoing pandemic.

"I am grateful for your generosity," Fambrini said. "You have not forgotten us during these stressful days of uncertainty and stress, providing for our continued ministry. We would not be able to continue with our ministry without your help. Thank you!"

Fambrini was welcomed into St. Francis Xavier's parish community in August of last year, following his appointment by the Diocese of Phoenix the previous June. That was months before the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced faith-based organizations to change the way worship is conducted.

Fambrini soon found himself livestreaming Mass to the faithful online and giving his homily to a largely vacant church.

"To see it empty is very, very odd," he told AZCentral in March.

Fr. Fambrini also referred to "a special sense of gratitude" on completion of St. Francis Xavier's capital campaign and referred to a passage from 2 Timothy 4:7 in reference to his priestly path thus far.

"Many long years and much hard work," he said. "Congratulations! I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. My second year begins with much which is unknown but I am certain that in this faith-filled community, God will ever be at our side."

Earlier, before the pandemic hit, Fambrini officiated at the baptism of his twin grandnieces and also visited Israel.