Bishop Richard F. Stika has appointed Father Michael Cummins as vicar for priests effective July 1.
Father Cummins will continue as pastor of St. Dominic Parish in Kingsport as well as continuing to chair the Diocese of Knoxville’s Presbyteral Council until the end of his term in November.
Father Cummins also will continue to serve as dean of the Five Rivers Deanery, which encompasses the upper East Tennessee area.
The vicar for priests appointment is for three years and can be renewed at Bishop Stika’s discretion.
In his announcement, Bishop Stika said a number of priests have recommended Father Cummins for this position.
Father Cummins succeeds Monsignor Patrick Garrity, who has served as vicar for priests for 11 years.
Bishop Stika extended his thanks to Monsignor Garrity for his years of service as vicar for priests.
