Rest in peace, Msgr. Joseph Funaro

Yesterday, I asked for prayers for my pastor emeritus, Msgr. Joseph Funaro.

Early this morning, his earthly journey came to an end.  He was 76.

O God, Thou didst raise Thy servant, Joseph, to the sacred priesthood of Jesus Christ, according to the Order of Melchisedech, giving him the sublime power to offer the Eternal Sacrifice, to bring the Body and Blood of Thy Son Jesus Christ down upon the altar, and to absolve the sins of men in Thine own holy Name. We beseech Thee to reward his faithfulness and to forget his faults, admitting him speedily into Thy holy presence, there to enjoy forever the recompense of his labors.

This we ask through Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord. Amen.

The parish has e-mailed the following details:

Msgr. Funaro passed away this morning, Wednesday August 14.

•  The wake will be held in church on Thursday August 15 from 6pm-9pm and Friday from 1pm-5pm.
•  A vigil mass will be celebrated Friday evening August 16 at 7pm.
•  A requiem mass will be celebrated Saturday morning August 17 at 10:15am.

Below is a snapshot from 2006, with my wife and me after the Rite of Acolyte.