Flannery leaving Saint Francis Xavier after 25 years

Father Robert Flannery is departing Carbondale after 25 years as pastor at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

Flannery, who is concluding 51 years of priesthood, plans to move to the Hincke Residence for Senior Priests in Belleville.

Flannery also has been chaplain at the Newman Catholic Student Center for seven years.

"It's been a nice mix with the parish and the Newman Center," Flannery told the Times. "It's a great community, Carbondale."

A retirement and open house is planned 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 30 at the Newman Center, 715 S. Washington St. A short program at 2 p.m. will be followed by refreshments. All are welcome.