By Fr. Brian Ward
We are united in prayer for John’s soul and for all who mourn his passing. Today, as we remember John, we recall a man who always took pride in his work and in serving his community. John was a skilled mason and a craftsman, building not only with his hands, but with his heart—creating pieces for his family that will be treasured for generations. He gave his time as a reserve police officer, an ambulance driver, and a volunteer fireman, always willing to step forward to help his neighbors. He served on the city council, taught safety to young people, and was always ready to visit with friends or offer a helping hand to children in need, especially because he remembered what it was like to be in foster care himself. John dearly loved his wife Darlene, his daughters Nancy and Cindy, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and all his family. He quietly lived out his faith, and was a longtime parishioner here at St. Paul’s, showing by his actions the love and mercy of Christ to those around him. And so, as we gather in sorrow, we also turn to the words of Jesus in today’s Gospel, from Matthew chapter 5—the Beatitudes. Jesus says: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven… Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy… Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” These words describe the kind of life John lived: humble, merciful, and always seeking to bring peace and help to others.
Today we remember John’s kindness, his dedication, and his love. We also remember the promise of Christ: that death is not the end. In this Easter season, we celebrate that Christ, by rising from the dead, has triumphed over death forever. Because John believed in Christ, death holds no power over him. Christ’s victory is John’s victory, and we trust that he now shares in the promise of eternal life. And the hope for ourselves is to do the same, by living out our faith by being faithful Catholics and Christians who love Christ.
And how did John believe, trust, and follow Jesus Christ? He lived out the Beatitudes each day—showing mercy in his actions, generosity with his time, and steadfast love for his family and community. May John now rest in the peace of Christ and dwell forever in the house of the Lord.
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