St. Mary Basilica has a couple of new faces.

The Rev. Scott Thomas and the Rev. Mark Shoffner were recently named pastor and parochial vicar respectively for St. Mary, which is home of the state’s oldest Catholic parish.

Both men are Mississippians and said they are proud to be in Natchez.

Thomas, 35, who grew up in Jackson, has led and been part of leadership teams for more than a decade at Catholic churches in Madison, Greenville and Clarksdale.

Shoffner, 32, who was ordained in May, is serving in his first church staff appointment in parochial vicar’s role, which is essentially an assistant pastor position.

Both men have an affinity for their home state and a deep appreciation for not only St. Mary Basilica and the history of the local parish but also of Natchez, its people and its history and attractions.

Recently retired pastor, the Rev. David O’Connor, did a great job leading the parish and we wish him well in his well-deserved retirement.

The two young priests certainly have big shoes to fill, but we are confident the two young Mississippians will do a great job.

Welcome to Natchez and the Miss-Lou, Thomas and Shoffner, we are proud to have you in our community.