Susan, Rainbow, Eric and Gloria,
I was shocked to learn of Charlieâ??s death. I read in the obituary that it was following a long illness. I had no idea.
I feel such warm memories as I think of Charlie. I first met him while he was still a priest and I was pastor at Wesley United Methodist Church in Fresno. We hit it off well together: I recall sharing with him a love of Christ, a commitment to better the world and a similar sense of humor. What joy there was. I shall never forget his genuine smile. He began visiting our worship service at Wesley and periodically lead the singing. Although no longer able to be a priest in the Catholic Church, he still felt called to ministry. When we had an opening on the staff, Charlie was the first choice, even though still a Roman Catholic priest. Eventually, he took the course of study required to become a United Methodist minister from the Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Fresno; I had the privilege of being his professor. I recall his pointing out to the class the similarities between St. Francis and John Wesley: love is the basis of theology/life and one must not be possessed by possessions. The similarity had never crossed my mind, before, but since then I have often referred to it - and included the source of the acute observation.
Then you, Susan, also joined the staff and what a time we had. Being more theologically conservative, you brought a richness and broadened perspective to us. Your and Charlieâ??s love for one another was rich to behold and witnessed to the love of God in your lives.
I know that love of God and the love of family and community surround you at this time.
Blessings,
Don Fado