St. Vivian Online Discussion Forum: Fr. Jack

Thread initiated by Jerry Meyer on 1/13/03.

Today as a community of friends we are saddened at the loss of Fr. Jack. We will sorely miss the way he humbly and beautifully went about making our lives so much richer. But we are more than a community of friends, we are a community of faith, we are Christians. So today we are joyful for Fr. Jack. Two weeks ago we celebrated Christmas, today Fr. Jack is experiencing Christmas. He is in that stable in Bethlehem hearing the angels sing as he personally witnesses the birth of the savior he so faithfully served here on earth. He is in the silent darkness of the tomb in the garden hearing Jesus take that first gasp of breath on Easter morning as the stone is rolled away and the GLORY of the Father is shone through His son. JACK IS THERE!! How glorious and wonderful a day this is for him as he stands before the throne of heaven free of his cancer with the arms of Christ around him hearing the Fathers voice ring out "well done my good and faithful servant". Congratulations Fr. Jack! I will miss you terribly, but am so happy for you as you now dance in the Kingdom you so diligently and faithfully helped build.

Amen and Alleluia!! I too am torn between tears of sorrow and tears of joy. As the lyrics of one of Fr. Jack's favorite songs states..."may your tears be turned into dancing".

by Sharon Meyer on 1/13/03 at 09:55 AM

Our loss is so immense, but our tears indeed are mixed with joy as well as sadness for we are certain that we now have yet another saint interceding in our behalf. Fr. Jack worked so diligently for all of us these many years we can be assured he will continue to do so.

Let's show him what a community of faith we are and carry on his name as he would wish us to do!

by Lori Zenk on 1/13/03 at 10:03 AM

Thank you Jerry for your beautiful tribute. I can't help but think that this gives a whole new thought to the line..."Our Father, who art in heaven". I too will miss you Fr. Jack but rejoice in your reward.

by Mary Ellen Smith on 1/13/03 at 10:14 AM

Jerry, what a beautiful tribute, I can't add anything so eloquent so I will recount one of my favorite memories of Father Jack:

Father Jack was such a gentle and kind man. He always knew me & my family by sight and loved talking to my 2 young boys. My oldest was always on the lookout for him and Father Jack knew it. One time in church ( as we were trying to transition from the cry room ), Ethan realized "Faver Jack" was up front (saying Mass) and called out for ALL to hear, "There's Faver Jack!!" After Mass & upon seeing us, he smiled and commented that I had my hands full ( like he always said ).

Jack, you dedicated your life to God and the Church, as well as to your Parishioners,
May you rejoice in the Communion of Saints and watch over all you have left behind.
I shall cling to this now, and all the tomorrows given me by our Lord, Jesus Christ.

by Debbie Ruter on 1/13/03 at 2:38 PM

As a teacher at St. Vivian for 22 years, I have witnessed first-hand so many, many kindnesses from Fr. Jack. He always said that the school children were HIS children. Each Christmas, he purchased a gift for every one of the students, and would come to each classroom with his Nativity figurines to tell the Christmas story. Halloween had him dressing as St. Patrick and visiting each room to explain All Saint's Day. Treats from Father were distributed to the children each year to celebrate the Feast of St. Vivian, and that's only a glimpse of his connection with the children.

As an administrator, Fr. Jack always listened patiently, and made every decision with grace and integrity. I never once heard him speak an unkind word about anyone, no matter the circumstances or situation.

One of my first grade students wrote earlier this year that he knew "that one day there would be a Saint Fr. Jack."
We truly are blessed with the gift of "Saint" Fr. Jack.

My eight year old has often asked me what I think God looks like. After sharing my perceptions one day, he smiled and replied "I always picture the face of God as being the face of Father Jack." Father Jack lived his life being the face of God to so many people. We love him dearly, and we miss him terribly, but he is truly in the place he has worked all his life to be. As my son said as he comforted ME the other night, "I'm happy for him, Mom...now he gets his wish-to be with God forever in heaven." Amen!

Thank you, God, for the gift of Father Jack for these many years. Peace to him, and all those who are missing him so.

by Jenny Duncan on 1/13/03 at 07:18 PM

I grew up just two doors down from the rectory on Denier Place. I now live in New York as a Carmelite Sister for the Aged and Infirm. I generally get home to Cincy about twice a year to visit my mom and family and always attend Mass at St. Vivian. Although my name in religion is Sr. Veronica, without fail, every time Fr. Jack would come down from the rectory into the church and pass my pew, he'd put out his hand in a "wave" and say, "hi, Bev, welcome home". It's the little things in life that count and Fr. Jack truly had that gift of knowing and doing the little things in a very quiet way!

I honestly don't think he was even aware himself of how much he was touching our lives. Not while he was here with us on earth, that is, but I'm sure the Lord is giving him a good glimpse now that he's in heaven! And how beautiful to be called Home on the eve of the Baptism of the Lord. As my Superior said, "surely the Lord came and annointed Fr. Jack Himself and then welcomed him Home"... just as Father had welcomed me home so very, very many times during his life. I, too, will miss you, Father and grieve your loss with all my St. Vivian family. We're happy for you and we'll make you proud of us, but please pray for us for we still need your shepherding care!

by Sr. M. Veronica Robert/Beverly Bien on 1/13/03 at 7:55 PM

As a former junior high religion teacher at St. Vivian for five years, I often asked myself how I could help my teenage students find God in their lives and get excited about being a child of God. I quickly discovered my first year of teaching what an impact Fr. Jack had on their lives. It was so refreshing in today's often troubling society to see the way my students looked up to Fr. Jack with admiration, respect, and friendship. Whenever the topic of role models came up in my classroom, Fr. Jack's name was a first to be mentioned. I can not begin to count the number of students who would write a letter to Fr. Jack when given the assignment of thanking someone who positively influenced them. He truly was a remarkable example of what it means to be a disciple of God.

Shortly before I got married in June of 2000, Fr. Jack proudly handed me a small gift-wrapped package. Upon opening a beautiful white statue of Mary holding baby Jesus, I read his card. In the card, he told me that he hoped someday God would bless me with a healthy child of my own, because he knew how much I referred to my students as "my kids"! As I stare into the eyes of my now eight month old son and the statue displayed on a shelf, I can't help but think of Fr. Jack and fondly remember all that he has given to the St. Vivian family and to me personally. We all have been impacted by his love and thoughtfulness. May we work hard to carry out his selfless ministries and treat others the way he did.

by Lisa Jennings on 1/13/03 at 09:45 PM

I have so enjoyed reading each persons reflections and memories of a such a precious soul. It is incredible to me that even in his passing, Fr. Jack is still bringing us together. "A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again." Maya Angelou

Thank you Fr. Jack for your life, your love and your example.

by Maria Meyer on 1/14/03 at 07:55 AM

I knew Fr. Jack for 18 years. For me, he BECAME St. Vivian Parish. A priest's priest. A wonderful man. Can I think of any issue where he was not doing what Christ would do? No. Did I ever disagree with him? No. Thoughtful- Always asking how you were, and your kids and your grandkids. Delegator extraordinaire- a low key but effective way of asking you to take on a project- how could you say no to Fr. Jack. A great sense of humor- a great sport in those St. Patrick's Day party skits. I have an image of him, smiling, donning his vestments in the sacristy befor Sunday Mass, smiling at me and sayng, "Those Irish sure looked good yesterday."
Fr. Jack, pray for us. Look out for your parishioners.

by Dave Lennert on 1/14/03 at 12:01 PM

My memories of Father Jack are of a humble, saintly man. I remember one time when I was particularly struck by a sermon which Father Jack gave on a holy day. (I don't remember which one. The sermon was given almost extemporaneously, not in Father Jack's usual style. I got the impression that he was speaking from his heart and sharing something of his own spirituality with us. After Mass I spoke with him in the sacristy and told him what a beautiful sermon it was. I said he had really touched my heart with his words. Dear Father Jack blushed and mumbled something about it not being much. He was so humble and so private about his own deep spirituality. I often found him praying quietly in church in front of the Blessed Virgin altar. He always treated me with respect and allowed me to fulfill my role as Pastoral Associate. For that I will always be grateful. I remember a time when I had to have the brakes in my car replaced and I did not have the necessary money to pay for it. Fr. Jack gave me the money out of his own pocket because he knew I was short at the time. He refused to be paid back. Fr.Jack's heart was bigger than he let on. He is, indeed, a saint in heaven.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

by Rev. Mary B. Vidmar+ on 1/14/03 at 12:09 PM

Fr. Jack had a way of getting you to volunteer even when you were on guard. It never seemed he was imposing. I think it was his quiet voice and good heart. I last saw him on Market Day in December. Cushion in hand he was on his way down the "el" to hear confessions.Of service to others with his last bits of energy. Fr. Jack was and is a treasure.

by Denise Cozart on 1/14/03 at 02:29 PM

As I sat in RCIA after my First Communion and Confirmation last spring, I remember asking my group, "What's next for me? Where do I go?" I was truly at a crossroads. But Father Jack knew. He had his hand and faith in my future. He never wanted me to know, but I figured it out. He made sure I was involved in as many things at St. Vivian as I could possibly handle. He encouraged me to take interests and old talents and turn them into gifts for the church and for the school. He helped me to understand that giving is truly more fulfilling than receiving.

by Kathy Raffenberg on 1/14/03 at 04:41 PM

In response to a writing prompt, "I remember Fr. Jack..."

"He was a cool priest."

"He was super kind, also super gentle."

"It is very sad that he died. He was the best priest ever."

"(Fr. Jack) is in heaven. There must be peace."

"He followed God."

"Fr. Jack was like a saint to us."

"(Fr. Jack) was special in every way."

"I hope heaven is a special place for you, Fr. Jack. We hope you make new friends up there in heaven."

"We all loved him."

by St. Vivian Second Graders on 1/14/03 at 07:24 PM

What a kind man. As secretary at St. Vivian Church for many years, I can honestly say that Fr. Jack was a very kind man to work for. Never an unkind word was spoken. What great memories! God Bless you and all of St. Vivian's parishioners.

by Janet Brehm Willis on 1/15/03 at 08:39 AM

I grew up in the 50's when the Catholic religion put fear in the minds of people with sensitive consciences. Religion was a stressful experience for me . Father Jack showed me what religion was really about. It is about sharing and caring for your fellow man. I truly believe Fr Jack was a Saint And will always remember how he made my life joyful instead of stressful.

by Tom Blandford on 1/15/03 at 08:54 AM

Father Jack lived his life in service of God. He baptized our children, he anointed our sick, and he escorted our loved ones into new life. He lived among us and lived with us in a strong silence, sharing with us faith by example as well as by word. Father Jack faced his final cross by giving himself into Godís hands. How wonderful an example of a selfless man walking into the face of death by holding Godís hand and knowing he would soon be in the light of salvation.

He faced death like he faced life. Through an intense faith and love in the Trinity. How blessed we are to have been given a gift by God of such a giving man, who gave his life to our Lord and to his Church community.

Oh God the Father, Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ, please remember your humble and giving servant, Father Jack as he journeys home.

We ask you to lift up Father Jackís soul to your heavenly kingdom. Father Jack is gone in body, but will always be a part of our parishís heart and soul. May we all give thanks to God above for giving St. Vivian Parish a living example of His Sacred Heart.

Oh Lord, please heal the pain we feel in our hearts caused by the separation of Father Jack in our daily lives. Please help us keep alive the spirit of Father Jack during any difficult times we will face in our Parish. Please help remind us to remain unselfish and giving in our journey through life as your servant Father Jack taught all of us.

Amen.

by Kirk Vonderhaar on 1/15/03 at 9:26 AM

Reading these tributes to Fr. Filippine has brought back so many memories of his humble and good nature. I met Fr. Filippine in high school in Springfield, Ohio during the mid to late '60s. I met my husband through Father's teen group at the school and Fr. Filippine officiated when we renewed our wedding vows many years later. His examples of kindness and patience help guide me today.

by Lisa Yannucci on 1/15/03 at 09:59 AM

I'll always remember Father Jack's warmth, humor, and acknowledgement of our humanity. I smile to myself as I remember several years ago when Father Jack was teaching my husband and myself to be eucharistic ministers. We expressed our anxiety about what to do if we clumsily dropped the Host while distributing communion. He smiled kindly and said not to worry, that if God got himself into the Host, he was surely able to get himself out before it hit the floor!

I enjoyed seeing him at church festivals and picnics over the years. He always had a smile and greeting for everyone. His being there made the event that much more special. The fact that he was there to know and be an example to our daughters throughout their St. Vivian School years, first communions, confirmations, and graduations will always be a source of inner comfort for me.

by Robin Usalis on 1/15/03 at 11:17 AM

Father Jack was the chartered head of Boy Scout Troop 682. He was always glad to be part of our Eagle Courts of Honor, ceremonies, and Scout Sunday. I used to joke with him about being our oldest Boy Scout. As Boy Scouts, we try to live up to the Scout Law: A Scout is Trustworthy...Loyal...Helpful...Friendly...Courteous...Kind...Obedient...Cheerful...Thrifty...Brave...Clean...Reverent.
I can think of no individual that I know that embodied these attributes more so than Father Jack. He will always serve as a source of inspiration to me as I try to live the Scout Law. The boys were so fond of saying that "Fr. Jack is cool", so much so that they voted to place that phrase on the front of their trailer. I couldn't agree more. Tonight, we will honor him as one of our own, as the head of Troop 682.

by Scott Irvine on 1/15/03 at 12:58 PM

"All of the people love you right now. Thank you for giving the Holy Spirit to the sick."

"Fr. Jack was a caring man and he loved us all."

"I wish I could talk to you again."

"God loves him. I know it. He cared so much about me."

"He's a guardian angel and a leader. His spirit is in our loving hearts."

"Fr. Jack gave us presents every year. This year he gave us a statue of a praying bear."

"He reminded us of God. He would always care for everyone."

by St. Vivian Second Graders on 1/15/03 at 1:12 PM

How I wish I could be back at St. Vivian's right now to sing Fr. Jack's favorite songs at his funeral. Instead, I'll sing them here, through my tears, knowing that he's truly in the "City of God" with all the other saints.

by Former Parishioner Joy Johnson on 1/15/03 at 02:59 PM

father flip! my very special friend. we met @ catholic central high school in spfld. ohio. my high school days some 30 years ago. we've been friends ever since. he married Jim & I in 1976, came to visit us @ our class reunions(we laughed alot) i always looked forward to his cards & especially the "candy" @ halloween!! I'm so touched by all of your tributes--your so lucky to have had him in your lifes for so many years.He always spoke of the parish and what was going on. I could tell how happy he was there, it was right were he wanted to be. What a wonderful person! i will miss him so.

by deb webb mann on 1/15/03 at 09:59 PM

Unfortunately I have only known Father Jack for 4 1/2 years. He was the main reason that I joined St. Vivian's parish. He showed humility and kindness when I was looking for a home for me and my children. Whenever I spoke to him, I saw a glow about him that can only be described as heavenly. When I looked at Father Jack, I saw Jesus in him. He was just a gracious man who is truly now where he has strived to be all his life, with our Lord. Heaven is lucky to have another Saint and I am a better person because of him. I miss you. Please continue to pray for our parish as we struggle with the loss of you here on earth.

by Jeanne Pratt on 1/15/03 at 11:04 PM

"Whatsoever you do to the least of my people, that you do unto me."

Father Jack lived this like few others. He personified kindness and humility.

When he first arrived here 17 years ago, he apologized for his weakness as a public speaker, then proceeded to inspire us with the strength of his message.

Sunday mornings at 7:30 I'd see him picking up litter in the front lot. This past December I arrived to find him, weak as he was, salting the front steps so we wouldn't slip.

If we considered his words golden, his actions were diamonds bringing brilliant sparkle to our light-starved lives.

He is a beacon showing us the way. We honor his memory by emulating his life. He will live in every kindness we share and every prayer say. God has truly blessed us with the gift of Father Jack.

by Jim Meyer on 1/15/03 at 11:33 PM

Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God. Every Fr. Jack memory and blessing are nothing but pure gifts from our Lord. How blessed we are to have had such a man leading us. How thankful my family is for that!

by Laura Hagen on 1/16/03 at 2:44 PM

In 1986, a gentle-looking man with white hair in a loose, brown sweater sat along the aisle in a pew. There was movement and noise all around him, but a gentle spirit continued to emanate from him. This one moment in time was a look into the future. This gentle white-haired man brought his gentle spirit to the people of his flock. This shepherd modeled Jesus by giving of himself totally. He became the image of the loving father to all the families that came to know him. All that have been touched by him have embraced him in love. And the miracle of friendship that comes from the soul was created.
Itís 2003 now and the path that was given him is changing with a new destination. God saw that he was getting tired and said there was one more thing to do: Show the people I love them by giving them time to say ìGoodbyeî. So with tear-filled eyes, we watched him suffer. And though we loved him deeply, the Lord said he could not stay. His golden heart will always beat with the love of his Lord and God. And what does this story tell us? His love will last forever.

by Pat & Bill Benvie on 1/16/03 at 05:13 PM

Yesterday, during the time of Fr. Jack's funeral, I was at work gazing out the window at the falling snow. The thought that popped into my mind was the snow was actually the excess confetti from Fr. Jack's welcoming celebration into heaven. The amount of confetti must correlate with the amount of good works a person does while here on earth, because we got a lot of snow.

by Dan Valerio on 1/17/03 at 4:11 PM

What a humble and kind man! My first memory of Fr. Jack was at St. X. Every Ash Wednesday the Mothers' Club and the Women's Club sponsor a Day of Recollection. Confessions are heard that day, too. Fr. Jack was there every year I can remember - even before I knew who he was. I always thought how nice it was for him to give his time to hear confessions for us. Then we moved here from Westwood in 1990 and my thoughts were confirmed. What a humble, kind and nice man indeed!

My second strong memory was the first time I went to Confession to Fr. Jack. I said "Bless me Father, I am a sinner".....and before I could continue he said: "So am I." It brought tears to my eyes. He caught me so off-guard that I could hardly continue.

I would also see him so often at Hospice...comforting the dying.

I know that he is with God and that makes me so happy!

by Nancy Klus on 1/17/03 at 4:33 PM

Our family will never forget Fr. Jack for all the help he gave us through many difficult times of our lives, for the happiness he brought us whenever we weren't feeling so good, and for the joy he added to our childrens' weddings. We are so lucky that our paths have crossed in this life and we really feel that now we can pray TO him and not FOR him. Our love is with you, Fr. Jack.

by Mary Whissel and family on 2/3/03 at 02:31 PM

I was out of town and when notified by our son Patrick that Father Jack's obituary was in the paper. I had several very empty days just thinking about the many memories that I have of him and St. Vivian parish. He was such a gentle man, and yet he accomplished so much in his quiet way. He cared about Ed and I and our family as if we were his only concern. St. Vivian community has been truly blessed by his leadership, and what a wonderful honor to name the multipurpose addition to the parish in his honor -- a living tribute. Thank you, Fr J., as I always addressed him in interoffice communications for being a part of my life and the lives of so many loving and caring people of the St. Vivian community.

Norma Longo, secretary in the Religious Education Center for 12 years, then parish bookkeeper for 8 years before my retirement in 1997.

by Norma Longo on 3/28/03 at 05:06 PM

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