Stephen Toice: New Dechant chosen in the Deanery Ybbs

Stephen Toice: New Dechant chosen in the Deanery Ybbs

In the Deanery Ybbs, the church community has reason to be happy: 43-year-old Stephen Toice was elected as the new dean. The priest from the Indian state of Kerala brings a wealth of experiences to his new position, which is responsible for the twelve parishes Ybbs, Säusenstein, St. Martin, Neumarkt, Blindenmarkt, Golling, Krummnußbaum, Erlauf, Petzenkirchen, Wieselburg, Steinakirchen and Pöchlarn.

The election took place under the direction of Erzdechant Wilhelm Schuh and can be understood as a clear expression of trust in Toice: he received the highest number of votes and was then officially confirmed by diocesan bishop Alois Schwarz. His history shows that he is not only a committed clergyman, but also well established in the region after working as a chaplain in the parish of Purgstall on the Erlauf.

experiences and roots

Stephen Toice saw the light of day on August 25, 1980 in Kerala. After studying theology, he received consecration in 2006 and has been strongly involved in various parishes since then. His active role in the parishes of St. Martin and Neumarkt on the YBBS since 2019 has certainly helped him to understand the special requirements and needs of the faith community.

The choice of his deputy, Pastor Hans Lagler from Steinakirchen, promises close cooperation, which will certainly contribute to strengthening social and religious life in this region. The responsibilities of the dechant are diverse and require both leadership and empathy, characteristics that undoubtedly embodies toice.

Such changes in church leadership are important for the population, since they are often closely linked to the communities. As a new dean, toice will not only lead the spiritual matters, but also help to combine the various parishes and to master challenges together. This is particularly important in times when people rely on guiding figures that give them a feeling of belonging and security.

An exciting time is about to, and the believers in the Deanery Ybbs can look forward to new impulses in their church work and community. How these developments will be concrete remains to be seen, but the trust in Stephen toice as a dean is initially very high. More information on this topic are on dsp.at to be found.