Bastrop, TX–After 37 years as pastor of Ascension Roman Catholic Church in Bastrop, Msgr. Edward J. Dokupil has announced his retirement. During his tenure “Father Dock,” as he is fondly called, guided the parish to significant growth.
When he arrived the church was a small late 19th century wooden structure. The parish property today covers a full city block bounded by Chestnut, Pecan, Pine and Water Street facing the Bastrop County Courthouse. Current facilities include brick buildings for worship services, a parish hall and a two story educational structure.
Dokupil will be honored with a special Mass at Ascension at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11 with the Most Reverend Gregory M. Aymond, Bishop of Austin. A reception will follow from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Bastrop High School cafeteria, 1614 Chambers St.
Dokupil was ordained as a priest 45 years ago.