Dear Editor: I remember the late Msgr. Austin Bennett at the parish of St. Rita’s in Long Island City.

Every Monday to Friday and on Sundays, I was happy to assist him. It was only when he couldn’t drive that he started to say Mass at St. Rita’s only on Sundays.

Msgr. Bennett was a priest’s priest. He was a true follower of Christ.

When my wife, Frances, was fighting cancer and dying, Msgr. Bennett went out of his way to see her and to console me. He gave me strength in his friendship and faith.

He showed love to everyone who needed kind words or help.

He also was a man who loved to camp out in the Dakotas and was a boatsman.

I will never forget him.

SAL CIACCIO

Astoria