New Priest in Hostyn and Plum Installed Saturday

There’s usually a strong breeze atop the hill at Hostyn’s Holy Rosary Catholic Church – one of the highest points in Fayette County.

Father Bob Knippenberg is used to it.

Growing up in Lubbock, he’s accustomed to strong winds.

He’s also growing accustomed to other aspects of life in Fayette County as he settles into his role, and his new home, at Hostyn. He will also serve as the new priest at Plum’s Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Even though he’s only one month into his service at the parishes, Knippenberg says he’s loving it.

“It’s been wonderful,” he said. “Everyone has been so kind and welcomed me with, I feel, with open arms. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.”

Saturday Knippenberg was officially installed as the new priest at both parishes in a ceremony conducted by Bishop Brendan Cahill.

Knippenberg said the installation ceremony is meant to “bring home the point that the priest is here to serve the people, to be of help and benefit to them.”

Prior to coming to Fayette County, Knippenberg served as priest at two parishes in Wharton and Boling for seven years, was in Victoria for two years prior to that, and in Shiner for nine years prior to that.

He was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, but moved to Lubbock when his dad’s job (with Hormel Meat Co.) was transferred when Bob was just four years old. He said he has no memory of his time in Minnesota .

He officially joined a religious order when he was 23.

When Father Dan Kahlich announced earlier this year that he was retiring as priest in Hostyn and Plum, Knippenberg said he quickly sent the bishop an email.

“I said, ‘Please consider me,’” Knippenberg said. “This is certainly one of the most beautiful places in the diocese.”

Knippenberg is the State Spiritual Director for the KJT (the Catholic Union of Texas) which is based in La Grange.

Knippenberg said another big reason for his transfer request was Fayette County puts him an hour-and-a-half closer to his parents, who live in an assisted living facility.

“I hope to be able to visit them more frequently,” Knippenberg said. “I’m trying to be a good son.”

He admits this is a strange time to become a new priest amidst a pandemic that has limited church attendance and required all who do attend Mass to wear face masks.

“All these new people, and all I’m seeing in their eyes. I look forward to, eventually, seeing more of their faces,” Knippenberg said.