Date: September 9, 2009
by: Robin Hartill | Community Editor

The Rev. Philip Scheff

The Rev. Philip Scheff has missed the people of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, since he was reassigned a month ago to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, in Port Charlotte.

But he said he’s looking forward to the new opportunities at St. Charles Borromeo.

“It’s very much a regular Catholic parish,” Scheff said. “There are families of all ages.”

Scheff was reassigned Aug. 1 to St. Charles Borromeo after three years and five months at St. Mary’s. Scheff was already familiar with the area, having served at San Antonio Catholic Church, in Port Charlotte, before he was assigned to St. Mary’s. He was serving there in 2004, when Hurricane Charley struck.

Scheff said his new role as parochial vicar at St. Charles Borromeo keeps him busy. His church covers two hospitals, six nursing homes and one hospice. Plus, the church has a parochial school for pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade students. Although Scheff doesn’t teach, occasionally, he celebrates Mass for the school.

“It’s a very busy, active ministry,” he said.

Because Scheff left St. Mary’s in the summer, he didn’t get a chance to bid farewell to many parishioners. But, they could still see him around from time to time. Although Scheff’s current work keeps him busy, he will still be coming to Longboat Key to visit occasionally.
egan, pastor at St. Mary’s.