On February 24
Father Joe Desmond died
He lived an amazing life.
He was kind,
soft spoken and humble.
He cared.
He is the reason
I didn't give up on the church.
He was what each of us should be.
He was a gem.
In 1980, when Kenny and I decided to get married,
we asked Father Joe to perform the service.
For weeks he would meet with us.
We'd hike through the woods at UNH,
talking about our dreams,
our goals,
the things that mattered to us.
Our afternoons would end at
The Tin Palace.
Pizza and Beer.
He didn't say a lot.
He listened.
But he did say this.
"Sometimes you meet two people
and it just seems as though God has put his finger
on both of their heads,
bringing them together.
I feel that when I am with the two of you."
We never forgot that.
Especially during the hard times.
Thank you, Father Joe.
You have been a blessing in our lives.
I am sure Kenny was happy to see you.



10 comments:
Cheryl what a poignant tribute to a special man and person. It sounds like God also touched him too as he had a profound effect on your life as well.....and brought you together for a reason. I loved going down memory lane with you at seeing your beautiful smiling faces on that special day. Thanks!
Wow. Just wow.
Hello Cheryl
How fortunate you are to have known Fr. Joe Desmond. The image you posted indicated the kindness in his eyes. What a beautiful comment he made about God putting his finger on both of your heads. (I love that image) Your wedding photo is just beautiful. You look like you are aged 15 yrs old. We married in 1981 and Monsignor Kerr met with us weekly also.
Thank you for sharing this story and may Fr. Joe rest in peace too.
Helenxx
Hello Cheryl:
Some people that one has the great fortune to meet in life are very special. Father Joe Desmond sounds to have been one of those people.
The kindness shines out from his eyes. How wonderful that you knew him, were married by him and kept him as a close friend for so many years. He obviously added a richness to your life which will be hard to replace.
I'm so sorry you lost such a dear friend. It's amazing to have a clergyman who touches lives. For me, it's Father Mark. xoxo
Shortly after we were married, the priest that married us at my childhood parish was struck by a car. It seemed was such a shock. I still remember his words are our service and how important he held God in his hands and heart.
What a lovely tribute. I am off to check the link.
pve
Very nice posting. Sweet pic of you and Kenny:O)
Dear heart...I am so sorry to know that Kenny has left your side. Yes, the accomplishment of reaching 30 years for me is a blessing that I will never ever forget or regret....the love we make is truly equal or even MORE to the love we create because love lasts forever, and is fulfilled to overflowing where both Kenny and this fine man of God are now.
Time does go somewhere....Anita
Cheryl, I am so sorry for your loss of a good friend and soul's mentor. How linked he was with Kenny, and your love together. I love those photos--your beautiful, wide and innocent eyes. We all start out in innocence of what lies ahead for us. Love and prayers of consolation. ;o)
Oh Cheryl. Your wedding pictures are lovely. Thank God for Father Joe. (Cheryl)
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