Magyar News, 1997. szeptember-1998. augusztus (8. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
1998-03-01 / 7. szám
St. Stephen Hungarian Friars to merge with our province of Immaculate Conception. Bob knew that such transitions often cause hardship and difficult feelings. These and his other natural struggles which Bob had, which we as men, priests, and religious all share, tested Bob's happy spirit. But gently, patiently, and with deep faith in God, again he would bring perspective with his humor. The reading from Corinthians today reminds us that “these little troubles are getting us ready for an eternal glory that will make all our troubles seem like nothing." Fr. Bob teaches us by his life the lesson that true discipline begins at the foot of Calvary but ends on the road to Emmaus! Was not his heart aflame at the breaking of the bread? Bread; You know, when Fr. James Villa and myself went to visit Fr. Bob a few weeks ago, we asked him if he wanted us to bring something from New York? His answer was Panatone! Italian sweet bread! A true son of St. Francis! The sweet bread that he loved was symbolic of the sweetest bread of life that he enjoyed consuming for over 30 years as a priest; The Eucharist! He loved his ministry both at Youngstown, Ohio as Custos, and especially here at St. Emery's Parish. He loved you, his people and was nourished by your love for him. Be consoled with the fact that you helped Fr. Robert, so much so, both in life and in his illness, that I believe you helped him to die in peace! That was the gift that you gave to him. Please don’t ever forget that! Jesus tells us in John's gospel" that unless the grain of wheat falls to the earth and dies, it remains just wheat. But if it dies it produces much fruit." Again, Fr. Bob brings to life that paschal mystery; how true love transcends death and bears fruit in loving service. I'll never forget being at his 25th celebration of Priesthood; There were over 800 people present. He knew everybody by name; He was able to remember who and when he Baptized, Married and Counseled. It was as if the 27 years he was here, didn’t blur his memory, but rather these years made his relationships more fruitful and enjoyable. He especially loved working with families and as Fr. Emeric says, was available to all families whether at home or in trouble! Where did Fr. Bob get his energy and spirit? And what lesson can we learn from him as we say goodbye? A few years ago, Fr. Robert went on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land with our Franciscan mission associates. He was thrilled to be able to visit the holy places in which our beloved Lord, and our blessed Lady (to whom he had a great devotion) walked. While visiting the River Jordan, all of the pilgrims were invited to enter into the water, to be re-baptized; In the same waters in which John baptized Jesus. Upon reflection, Brother Madeline and Father Roderick along with the other pilgrims recall the look of joy on Bob’s face. He closed his eyes, reached up to Heaven with his hands outstretched almost as if he could touch the living God. Then he received the Baptismal waters and smiled! All were profoundly moved by his demeanor! It was as if God was right there; saying to him " You are my beloved son." And because of this experience, one young man that was on that trip later entered the seminary to study for the priesthood! And this, my friends is the lesson that we can take from this life; to trust in Christ's closeness, no matter what! That God will get us through everything, problems, grief, illness, even death itself! So smile! Be joyous! Oh death, where is your sting? With Francis, welcome death as your sister; for Christ has overcome death by his resurrection! And has promised us new life! As we prepare for the Eucharist, something that Fr. Robert has done for 30 years of priesthood, we believe that Bob would want us to prepare joyfully! That is the lesson of his life! And we can hear his laughter echoing from Heaven, that brings us consolation and comfort. Thank you, Fr. Bob. We will celebrate this Eucharist in your memory with Christ, and in a most joyful way! We look forward to seeing you once again, at that eternal banquet where we will gather with you and all our loved ones for ever, and once again enjoy fullness of life with you! Page 6
