Dear Editor: I have known Father Rock since my childhood (“St. John’s Priest Is a ‘Rock’ for Athletes,” Feb. 23). He was our family pastor. He did weddings, baptisms and funerals beyond the Sunday service. Who knew many years later one of the children in our family that he baptized would find their way to St John’s University and find him there. It was such a comfort to know that he would be there for her spiritually still. This is a great man and spiritual leader. Germantown misses you but you have always been bound for great things.

J. NAVARRO

Via website

 

Dear Editor: ‘Ricky Rock’ is a great man. I have known him for over 40 years. He kept East Germantown together through all the changes. He cared for everyone. If and when he called you for a favor, your only response would be, “Yes, Father.”

My family was always involved with the Vincentians. My Dad, born in 1906, never lived more than a few blocks from the Immaculate Conception Church and died as the sexton. Many of the priests from Saint Vincent’s Seminary came to our house for a social visits, took off their collars and were regular men. They staffed Niagara and Saint John’s as well as four churches in Germantown.

Father ‘Rock’ continued the role of service to the community and gave his all for numerous years at Immaculate Conception, Saint Vincents and finally St. Francis.

I hope to catch up with Ricky soon, maybe when he is in Philadelphia again. You have a great man, priest and servant in your midst. Cherish the days.

BOB MCCREIGHT

Havertown, PA

 

Dear Editor: In Philadelphia Father ‘Rock’ is known as The Rock. He not only was our pastor, mentor, confessor, but he was and continues to be friend and part of the family. The Rock has a heart of gold.

Every family that he meets knows that he is just a cell call away. We miss you at Mass and at our family cookouts. But we know that God has called you back to New York to guide the youth at Saint John’s.

TRISH AND THE JAMES FAMILY

Via website