By Georgiana Francisco | Correspondent

The annual Memorial Mass for deceased Deacons of the Diocese, their wives, and children, which took place Nov. 5 in Sacred Heart Church, Mount. Holly, aptly began with the gathering hymn, “We Remember.” 

The theme of remembrance echoed throughout the celebration of the Memorial Mass that was celebrated by Msgr. Thomas Mullelly, diocesan vicar for clergy and consecrated. Concelebrants included Father John Czahur, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, and Deacon James Casa, who preached the homily.

“In these last remnants of autumn,” Deacon Casa said, “It’s hard not to wish there was one more day in October,” which he called “summer’s last smile,” and noted the similarity to those wishing they had just one more day with those who have gone on to their heavenly reward.

“In our hearts, we want them to be with us a little longer. But we must remember that they are still here,” he said.

Deacon Casa reflected on the blessing it is for him to serve as a deacon and being “part of a larger community of sacramental orders that is bigger than ourselves.

“Let us not forget to reflect on how they responded in their faith to serve and make a contribution to the grand story.” 

Some emotional moments of the Mass occurred during the Prayers of the Faithful when Msgr. Mullelly read the names of all the deceased deacons of the Diocese. As the names were called, a loved one, either a family member or fellow deacon, came forward and placed a carnation in one of the four vases near the sanctuary. In all, the names of more than 155 deacons who died were called.

“This memorial Mass is always inspiring as we reflect on the lives of the deacons whose service should be remembered and to whom we owe so much,” said Deacon Michael Riley, associate director of the diocesan Office of Clergy and Consecrated Life.

Josephine Fuoco, widow of Deacon Joseph Fuoco of Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish, Riverside, who was surrounded by her granddaughter, son-in-law, and great granddaughter during the Mass, said she had “a hard time holding it together” during the Mass. Deacon Fuoco, was ordained in 1978 and died exactly five years ago to the day of the Mass, Nov. 5, 2011.

“This is the fourth Memorial Mass I’ve attended and I noticed that there were  more vases today than there have been in years past,” she said, recalling that her husband served the Church for almost 38 years.

“It’s heartwarming to know he is remembered each year with his brother deacons on this special day,” she said.

The annual Memorial Mass is traditionally celebrated during November, which commemorates the month of All Souls. The Mass provides an opportunity for the diaconate community to prayerfully remember those who served the faith community and reflect on the gifts of faith and service that deceased deacons provided through their ministry of Word, Sacrament and Charity. The Mass also calls attention to the loving support given by family members as partners in ministry.