Holy Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach recently welcomed its new pastor, the Rev. Thomas E. Barrett, who has been a priest of the Diocese of Palm Beach for the past 27 years.

“He is committed to continuing and building upon the wonderful ministry and work of the Rev. Richard Murphy and the successes of the parish,” the church said on its website.

Barrett, who is originally from New York and moved to South Florida in 1976, was ordained as a priest in 1993. His most recent assignment was Rector of the Cathedral for the Diocese of Palm Beach Gardens, where he served for 15 years.  

The Rev. Thomas E. Barrett | https://holycrossverobeach.org/

He supervised the renovation of the church in 2006 and construction of a new Parish Family Life Center in 2019.

“Even though he has other current diocesan appointments, his primary role and top priority will be in service to the people of this fine and beautiful parish family,” the church said.