It was a day of new beginnings at St. Thomas Catholic Church in DeSmet Sunday morning.

Father Shane Stevens took over as priest after the congregation's former priest, Father Cathal Gallagher, was denied a green card and told he had to leave the country.

Father Gallagher, who led the parish for the last ten years, learned last week he can remain in the county as his case gets another look. But church leaders had already made the decision to bring in Father Stevens.

On Sunday parishioners and Father Stevens himself reflected on this tough transition.

"I think he tried to let us know that he would help us though this, the healing process," parishioner Cindy Albrecht said. "And we're just going to grow. We'll grow in friendship with, and right along with, him. He's got some awfully big shoes to fill."

"I am so thankful to be able to come in and be able to serve them as best I can," Father Stevens said.