Bishop's reflection for Ahmir Jolliff's funeral service
by Bishop Joensen | January 12, 2024
Bishop William Joensen's reflection for the funeral worship service for Ahmir Jolliff at St. Patrick Church, Perry, Iowa on Jan. 11, 2024.
On behalf of the Catholic faithful of Central and Southwest Iowa, our hearts and spirits sag with sadness at the wrenching death of Ahmir Jolliff, a child of God whose smile reflected God’s light and joy to his family, his classmates, and so many in this Perry community. Erica, as his mother, along with Ahmir’s sisters and family, you grace us by allowing us to provide a place where we might commend Ahmir to God and seek the consolation and fortified hope that God’s word and the Cross of Christ affords us.
Jesus challenged his disciples not to stand in the way, but to let the children come to him so that he might embrace them in the love of his Father. Nothing, no one, can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus Our Savior, not even death itself. God does not desire death. In our wildest imaginings, we never thought that one week ago Ahmir’s buoyant life would end. What happened last Thursday was worse than a nightmare. It is a reality that is etched in our souls for the rest of our lives.
There is, though, a greater reality. In faith, we are certain that God desires for us to live with him forever. Jesus promises that the dead will rise in him, for he is the Resurrection and the Life. One day he will wipe away all tears. If we live his love, we shall behold him and Ahmir and all whom we long to see face-to-face. This is our hope that no one can take from us.
One week from today begins the annual Week of Christian Unity. Already today, as disciples of Christ, we are united in His name in prayer and presence, grief and grace. We join with the many churches of this Perry community and beyond, with Muslims and Jews and all people of good will, as we promise to remember Ahmir—and yes, the Butler family, whose cross is heavy, too. We pledge and commit ourselves to do all within our power to embrace all children, to protect and accompany them so that they might gain a sense of belonging, and might grow and flourish. We implore God that the shadow of violent death might never again loom over us, and that we might share peace and brotherhood, restored trust, and yes, even a smile, together. Amen.
Homily of Father Litto Thomas on Jan. 7, 2024
Pastor of St. Patrick Church, Perry Iowa
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, I stand before you today as your shepherd, grappling with the weight of recent events in our beloved town of Perry. Last Thursday, the unthinkable happened in our community. In the face of this tragedy, our hearts are heavy, and the road ahead seems uncertain. Yet, as we gather here today, we turn to the Word of God for solace, guidance, and the promise of hope.
Our Gospel passage takes us back to a time when a different kind of fear and uncertainty gripped the land. It was a time when King Herod, troubled by the news of a newborn king, sought to maintain his power and control. In the midst of this darkness, the Magi, wise men from the East, embarked on a journey following a star that led them to the Christ child.
These Magi, with hearts full of faith, set out on a quest to find the newborn King of the Jews. Their journey was not without challenges, just as we face challenges in our own community today. They encountered the troubled heart of Herod, who fake interest in paying homage but had wicked intentions. Despite the obstacles, the Magi pressed on, guided by the light of the star.
In times of darkness, we too can find guidance in the light of Christ. The Magi's journey is a symbol of hope and perseverance, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, God's light leads us forward. Like the Magi, we are called to seek the Christ child amidst the chaos of our lives.
As the Magi approached the place where the child lay, their joy overflowed, and they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In the midst of our pain, we are reminded that our Savior, Jesus Christ, is with us, offering solace and healing. Just as the Magi presented their precious gifts, let us open our hearts to Jesus, offering our pain, grief, and fears before Him.
The Magi, having encountered the Christ child, received a warning in a dream not to return to Herod. In a similar manner, God speaks to us through the depths of our hearts, guiding us away from paths that lead to destruction. Let us be attentive to the whispers of God, guiding us towards the way of peace, justice, and healing.
In the wake of our own tragedy, we are called to be a community that supports, loves, and heals. Let us reach out to one another, extending a hand of comfort and understanding. In times of darkness, our unity as a community becomes a beacon of hope, shining the light of Christ into the darkest corners.
As we leave this place today, may we, like the Magi, journey forward by another way. Let our path be one of faith, compassion, and resilience. In the face of fear, let us stand firm in our faith, trusting that God's light will guide us, and together, as a community, we will emerge stronger, more united, and filled with the enduring hope found in the Christ child.
To the teachers who have been witnesses to this tragedy, we extend our deepest gratitude for your dedication and love for our children. Your role in shaping young minds is a sacred calling, and we recognize the emotional toll this event may have on you. We pray for strength and healing.
To the first responders who bravely rushed to the scene, risking their own safety to protect and serve, we thank you for your selflessness. May God's grace surround you and sustain you as you process the challenges you faced.
To the students who have experienced unimaginable loss, and to the families who mourn the absence of their beloved ones, we offer our heartfelt condolences and support. In times of grief, let us remember the promise of our faith—that through Christ, there is hope and healing.
As a Catholic community, let us come together in solidarity. In addition to our prayers, let us take practical steps to support one another. Offer a helping hand, lend a listening ear, and be present for those who are grieving. Let our actions reflect the love of Christ, bringing comfort to the brokenhearted and fostering a sense of community.
In the spirit of the magi, let us open our own treasures—our time, talents, and resources—and offer them to those in need. Let us be proactive in fostering healing and unity in our community. Amen.