Each morning my Zoom prayer community hears the names of bishops, priests, and deacons who have died on this day. Today, I heard your name … Father Leonard J. Calegari (2014).

How is it that ten years have passed? Below was a dedication I wrote 10 years ago. I place it here to remember you!

My most vivid memory of you was the last joke you pulled on me. I was with my God kids and others praying in a dark church. From behind the altar, you yelled into the darkened church, “Hey JR!” Your baritone voice scared us half to death!!

I AM DEEPLY SAD that I never had a chance to thank you. Thank you for letting me be the organist who laughed at all your jokes. Thank you for staying in your pajamas doing crossword puzzles at the house and making me eggs for breakfast.

Above all, thank you for encouraging me to always be myself. I’ll miss you so much Father Len and words can never truly be enough to express my gratitude. I will pray for you where I always saw you. This is the place where you lived, spoke, and loved. From behind the altar of God. Rest in peace and rise in glory!