Burial of Father Deacon Joseph Kerns

Dear ones,

We gathered in church today to celebrate Divine Liturgy for Saint Andrew and for our dear Deacon Joseph, whose body lay in the middle of the church. Deacon Joseph made the coffin some time ago for himself as a preparation.

The church was packed with clergy, family and friends. The choir sang the beautiful hymns and we said our last good-byes.

We went over to the hall where we consoled each other and the family. There was a slide show of photos of the Deacon. Photos of babies, children, his wife Elizabeth, and himself. Obvious joy from being with his family radiated from the photos.

We went back to the church and the lid of the coffin was nailed on solemnly. There is nothing that sounds more final.

The burial was at the Wilkeson cemetery. As soon as Holy Resurrection obtains permits for a church cemetery, Deacon Joseph's body will be transferred there, where he wanted to be buried.

We are all unspeakably affected. Every one of us wanted the power to raise the Deacon from the dead, and every one of us could not. We put our hope in Him Who was raised from the dead, Who is the Resurrection and the Life. Amen.

Hugs to you who knew Deacon Joseph, and hugs to you who did not. Somehow, we all need each other, whether we know it or not. I am glad to have you as a brother or sister on this earth, whomever you are.

- Auriel