I had the unforeseen opportunity (and good fortune) to be in attendance at St. Jerome's Parish Special Mass "In Memory of Pope Francis". A Mass to be in honor of and celebration of Pope Francis' legacy, that was to take place on the eve of the Pope's final services, and burial, on the following morning in Rome. To say that the sermon and memorial were magnificent would be an understatement. We began with a "Candlelight Vigil" for the Pope, as we as an extended family, formed a procession, with each congregant carrying a "ceremonial" candle to the altar in tribute of a Pope who was loved and cherished by so many on a global basis. And that was just the beginning.... Pastor Gary Regula's sermon was both sweeping and stirring, as he communicated and informed us of Pope Francis' mission, as well as the late Pope's tremendous efforts to reach out to each of us worldwide, and to remind us that we are all "together" in this journey of faith... that Pope Francis reached out to all creatures, and particularly to the marginalized, those living in extreme poverty, those with no medical facilities or services available to them, those in war-torn parts of the world (that today have become more and more common). Father Regula's homily, delivered on this sacred occasion, was RESOUNDING. This was an occasion not to be missed. The staff at St. Jerome's Parish meticulously plans, and accomplish the presentation of a very personalized experience for all that attend their masses and special events. The staff deserve much recognition for their tireless work on behalf of St. Jerome's as well. The entire community in greater Phoenix, AZ are indeed very blessed to have access to St. Jerome's Parish, not only to worship, but as a house of refuge. A home that is safe, where ALL are loved unconditionally... And that is truly a miracle in and of itself! read more