Just two weeks to the day after our beloved Deacon Vincent Serzan died, our beloved Msgr. James McMenemie passed away on Jan. 19. How hard it is to lose those we truly love.
Msgr. Jim, like Deacon Vinnie, was selfless in his dedication to the Church which he served and to all people. He found his happiness in working in the Archdiocese, in our parish, and with the people. The fact that so many friends and acquaintances came to his wake, vigil Mass, and funeral Mass is a testimony to his goodness. I first got to know him over 30 years ago when he was serving on weekends in Holy Trinity parish in Hackensack, and I was in the next parish. Then, happily, when I arrived here as pastor six years ago, he was in residence.
In spite of the fact that he was retired and that he had numerous health problems, he helped us by offering Mass daily until he could no longer see because of macular degeneration. He was always available to anyone who needed help or who just wanted to talk. He pushed himself to the limit of his physical capacity.
Msgr. Jim was an example of what a priest should be—a true priest now and in eternity!
We love you and are comforted that you are praying for us.
Fr. Stanley
