On Remembering Bishop Zafra

I write you
this as a vacationing priest
reminds me of your annual visit

as a dear friend and not a guest.

Chicago welcomes you 

and with great anticipation
invite you to special occasion 

for the Eucharistic celebration.

Your honesty
embossed in the wall of Time
is a living testimony 

of your mission in any clime.

The world now echoes with terrors 

that destroy the peace needs  prayer

your integrity and holiness.

Even as our world trembles and speaks 

in Babel of harm and disunity
we find unity in diversity.

We believe that Luzon, Visayas,

and Mindanao could find the fountain 

of understanding, peace, and love.

And we have embraced your message

of faith, hope, and love; for you're loved.

(Msgr. Felix S. Zafra died Sunday, Aug. 4, 2002, at 1:00 PM at the Bishop's Residence in Tagbilaran City, Philippines. He solemnized our wedding with Msgr. Salvador Mora con-celebrating on May 29, 1973, at St. Mary's Chapel, Dipolog City, Philippines. )

Greg In. Trabanca