Gilbert Reines R.I.P.

Dear Friends,

I write with the very sad news that our beloved Gilbert died this morning. Gilbert was such an important and generous member of our church and he will be deeply missed. He was organist at our church for so many years and a great friend to many. I was privileged to be able to see him on Saturday and he joined in enthusiastically with the liturgy, saying the responses and the Lord's Prayer. After I had anointed him I asked what his favourite hymn was and we sang together two verses of Alleluia Sing to Jesus. It was so lovely to be able to sing with him as we did on many an evening together and of course in church. Fr Patrick was also able to go to see him earlier in the week. I have so many happy memories of Gilbert that it will be difficult to distil them as we seek to remember what an extraordinary person he is. It is of great comfort that he will be joining his beloved Ursula in heaven.  

It has been a very difficult time for the parish, losing so many who are so dear to to us. I'm sure we will all be praying for Gilbert and one another in this time. Tomorrow morning at 9.30 I will be saying a requiem mass for him, and you are welcome to come along, or watch on Facebook where it will be streamed. 

I will let you know the funeral details when they come.

With love and prayers,

Fr Ben