Fr. Bradley's interment on June 14
The remains of Catholic priest Gary Bradley will be buried on June 14, 2000 at the Chalan Kanoa Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.
Immediately after the 8:00 a.m. mass at Kristo Rai Parish, Fr. Bradley’s body will be transferred to Mt. Carmel Cathedral for public viewing, according to Vicente Songsong, president of Kristo Rai Parish.
Friends of Fr. Bradley will be given the opportunity to share their stories about how they remember the Jesuit priest after the 6:00 p.m. mass and rosary on June 13. Fr. Bradley collapsed and died Sunday morning while saying mass at Kristo Rai Church.
“It is one way to unburden this feeling of sadness that we feel. All those people whose lives have been touched by Fr. Bradley will be given the chance to share their stories,” said Mr. Songsong.
As the late priest has undoubtedly touched so many people’s lives during his stay in the CNMI, Rev. Jaime Vergara, pastor of the Immanuel United Methodist Church, Anne Stewart and John Yohannan are now collecting stories about Fr. Bradley which will be published later on.
A copy of the notebook entitled “Stories About Father Gary” will be given to the Joeten Kiyu Public Library, the Diocese, the Society of Jesus and Fr. Bradley’s family.
“The earth does not revolve around the sun. The earth revolves around stories, human stories was something Fr. Gary Bradley was fond of saying,” said Pastor Vergara. He is urging friends of Fr. Bradley to write down in a piece of paper their favorite recollection of the late priest or share their favorite photo with him. A tape narrative will also be accepted in the language of their choice which will be used in various formats to honor Fr. Bradley’s memory.
Fr. Ken Hezel, S.J., superior of Fr. Bradley, suggested during a meeting Sunday evening that people should be encouraged to tell stories of what and how they remember the priest. “Fr. Gary’s pastoral service extended way beyond his parish and his congregation, even his Church,” said Pastor Vergara.
Written narratives for publication can be faxed to 234-3077 (attention Anne Stewart), 322-6122 (attention Y John) or 2357776 (attention Jaime). For materials to be picked up call 288-7777 for Pastor Jaime. You can drop off your photos or narrative materials at Coffee Care Restaurant on Capitol Hill, c/o Y John.
