By Teresa Golden
Proclaim!
Father Derek Fairman, Pastor of Saint John the Evangelist Parish in Everett and Saint Stephen Parish in McConnellsburg, is not shy when it comes to sharing his love of Mary with his parishioners.
One particular way he incorporates his personal devotion into his priestly ministry is through hosting an annual Marian Celebration at Saint John the Evangelist Parish in Everett, where dedicated parishioners work with their pastor to host a multi-day devotion in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
“The people here did always have a great devotion to the Blessed Mother,” said Father Fairman. “I wanted to build on the people’s devotion to the Blessed Mother, but I also wanted to tie it in with our parish’s patron, Saint John the Evangelist, so I chose something that Saint John the Evangelist would have been around to witness-the Assumption.”
In 2016, Father Fairman hosted the first Marian Celebration at the parish. Since then, he has drawn more and more to come and take part in the many events planned for the week-long period.
The many days include various Marian-centered events, such as daily Mass, evening prayer, recitation of the Rosary, guest homilists, and more.
The faithful from all over the diocese were able to submit prayer intentions and in turn have a candle lit at the parish during the days of prayer, during which attendees would ask the Blessed Mother for her intercession for their intentions.
Parishioners also coordinated social gatherings, children’s activities, and artwork displays for guests to enjoy, fully embracing the mission of their pastor.
Father Fairman is continually motivated to challenge all to seek a closer devotion to Mary, especially through finding unique spiritual resources for attendees to integrate in their personal spiritual lives.
“I always want to get people to think about the ways the Blessed Mother impacts their lives and that she is their mother, so I look to do things to get people to think and put things in perspective,” he said.
In addition to his work at his parishes, Father Fairman contributed to Proclaim! TV this past May with his Marian Reflections series. Click HERE to access each segment that was featured.
