Father Chanda

Who gives homework? Aren't those for teachers?

But no!!! I know of someone, HE is quite the preacher!

End of Mass blessings, he gives AFTER the assignment,

Making sure as we listen, we stay in alignment.

A love song to our Lord, he sings from the heart,

Awaiting for us to join, this is how he'd start.

Stopping and cuing when we are off beat,

In unison we sing God's love song, so sweet.

The Gospel is read, and everyone awaits,

He shows us roads to avoid narrow straits.

Loving God and neighbors, examples he give,

To be a disciple, apostle, a saint; how should we live.

He comes down from the altar and walks around the pew,

Waiting for our answers to sharp questions he threw.

He sections the pews, as he catechize and discuss,

And if we don't quite get it, a longer mass awaits us.

Breaking down the Gospel, and tying this with our lives,

At one point he had some props, a fork and a knife!

In front of the altar, little children, he called,

Some raise their hands, completely enthralled.

He comes down to their level, making sure they understand,

And if they didn't comprehend, they can ask him first-hand.

Giving special gifts, after each delightful participation,

Little rosaries after mass, he gives away as a devotion.

Who is this priest who is captivating as can be?

Gifted by the Holy Spirit, there's no way one can unsee.

His name is Fr. Chanda, oh how we love his energy!

He warns us of divisions and teaches us of synergy.

My special needs child had a melt down in his homily,

With a calm demeanor, showing compassion to my family.

Pausing the homily, he asked all to say a little prayer,

Giving hope to this poor mom, who was filled with despair.

How special is his heart that is filled with charity,

A true and rare gift given to all the community.

Filled with joy and love no matter where he goes,

Christ Jesus imbued, is what his aura shows.

What beauty I behold when he consecrates the bread and wine,

Showing the uttermost reverence to Jesus most sublime.

As if frozen in time, we are taken in the upper room,

Gracing our dispositions preparatory to consume.

Blessed are you, Fr. Chanda for becoming a holy priest,

By your love and example, the faithful have increased.

Blessed are the people whose lives you have touched,

Gifts from the Holy Spirit, truly, you impart so much.

Wishing you all the best, in all of your life's undertakings,

But for those you leave behind, it could be heartbreaking.

With much appreciation for the person that you are,

Steadfast prayers we give you, whether you are near or far.

5/20/2025

Farewell poem to Father Chanda by Lou Principe

St. Stephen the Martyr and St. Anthony Parishioner