+ RIP
Fr. Clem, a former director of Jesuit Retreat House in Parma, used to joke, "Spare me, Oh Lord!" When his coffin was lowered on the hill of Colombiere, Michigan, I knew the Lord spared him for eternity.
The mass of Christian burial was simple and yet beautiful. Many Jesuit priests with a lot of Metzgers seemed to be full of gratitude and joy for the one they have cherished and enjoyed for seventy five years. The superior, former JRH director and Fr. Clem’s nephew were celebrants. His best friend Ned wrote a heartfelt homily, but it was delivered by another Jesuit for Ned was not able to come because of the snowstorm in NY. Ned was sure that Fr. Clem would not be rest in peace, rather, he would wander around until he finds to mow the lawn or prune the tree in the heavenly garden.
Fr. Clem looked to give it all to the end and his mortal body seemed nothing left. However, his energetic spirit and thundering voice were lingering in the people’s conversation and hearts. It was a true consolation to be there to say goodbye to my friend, mentor and spiritual director.
I was able to get to Colombiere without a problem because of a navigation that was Fr. Clem’s birthday gift from his family and then he gave it to me later saying, "H.Paul, you may need this!" Certainly, I need a navigation to find a direction which actually led me to Fr. Clem’s final departure. At the same time, I see that he himself is a navigation that will lead me to Home, the Father’s House.
On the way back, I stopped by Solanus Casey Center in Detroit. Fr. Solanus was a Capuchin who thanked God ahead of time and lived among the poor as a servant. I felt very blessed to get to encounter and learn from two simple, humble and holy men.
I thank God for Fr. Clem’s life on earth and thank God again for his intercession for us ahead of time.
See you at Home, Fr. Clem!