I was inspired by the way Fr. Jim Krings planned his funeral. He accepted death as a naturally occurring event and planned for his transition from his earthly life to his heavenly life. The “St. Louis Review” published his obituary the same time that it posted articles about milestones obtained by various priests, religious and deacons. In both, I was struck by the litany of things these God-centered people had done in their lives. Certainly there were lists of accomplishments and honors earned, but the thing that struck me the most was the list of things they did in service to their Church without recognition. Those are the things I am most impressed in. Those are the things that motivate me to do more (not for myself, but for others).
I think about my own obituary notice or jubilee as an ordained Deacon. What will they say about me and the way I chose to live my life? It makes you think: Am I doing what God wants me to do? Am I making the most of my God-given talents? Am I serving others, or serving myself?
When you pass from this life to the next, how will your obituary read?
Deacon Dan Donnelly 