RIP, Deacon Elias Coll, ordained during his battle with cancer

Some may remember this story from November, about a Florida deacon candidate diagnosed with stage four colon cancer who was ordained several months early.

Earlier this month, he entered eternal life: 

After a four-year battle with cancer, Elias Amado Coll passed on March 11, 2017 in Orlando, FL at the age of 63.

When diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer in 2012, Elias was at the beginning of his diaconate formation. He continued his formation and several church ministries as well as fighting the illness; always with a smile, lovely words, patience, honesty, prudency and a profound love for God. As part of his church ministry and battling cancer, he used to visit people sick with cancer, to which he offered love, compassion and an extraordinary demonstration of faith. He remained brave and faithful even throughout his final months.

…He had the blessing of serving as a deacon for a few months before his passing. He always served God with solemnity and respect.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him…

Photo: Florida Catholic