In Memoriam

Dearly Beloved Members of Our Lady of Grace Women's Guild

Who Have Passed Away

November 1, 2025 through October 31, 2026

Nancy Merrick

December 17, 1952 -  January 30, 2026

Long-term Guild member

Sherry Cline Martin

d. February 22, 2026

Helen Kakuk

August 31, 1938 - March 23, 2026

Demetrio "Dean" Veloz Jr.

Husband of long-time Guild member Clara Veloz

April 9, 1944 - March 31, 2026

Reverend John Moloney

Pastor at OLPH from 1992-2002

 June 15, 2026

Fr. John Moloney's Legacy at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church

Fr. John Moloney served as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church from 1992 to 2002, leaving a lasting spiritual and pastoral legacy that continues to shape the parish community today. 

One of his greatest accomplishments was leading the parish through the rebuilding of the church following the devastating 1987 Whittier Narrows earthquake. More than restoring a building, Fr. John helped restore a sense of hope and unity, reminding parishioners that the Church is built upon the faith of its people.

Fr. John also transformed the parish's baptism preparation program into a four-week journey that immersed parents in the meaning of Christian initiation. Each session centered on a sacred symbol of the church: the church doors, where parents reflected on the question, "What do you ask of the Church for your child?"; the family table, emphasizing the importance of sharing God's Word and living the faith at home; the altar, where families learned about the Eucharist as the source and summit of Christian life; and the baptismal font, where new life in Christ begins. His thoughtful approach helped parents understand that baptism marked the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith. 

In 1989, Fr. John introduced Children's Liturgy of the Word, providing young parishioners with the opportunity to hear and understand the Sunday Scriptures in a way that spoke to their hearts and minds. This ministry has nurtured generations of children, helping them grow in their relationship with Christ and preparing them to participate more fully in the life of the Church.

Fr. John's legacy extends far beyond bricks and mortar. Through his vision, his commitment to faith formation, and his love for families and children, he strengthened the spiritual foundation of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. His influence continues to be seen in the lives of those he baptized, taught, and inspired, and in the enduring ministries that remain a vibrant part of parish life.

Merciful and loving Father, we remember now in prayer our dearly departed. May they rest in peace with you and experience the eternal joy of heaven. As we renew our faith in your Son, whom you raised from the dead, Your power brings us to birth, Your providence guides our lives, and by Your command we return to dust. Lord, those who die still live in Your presence, their lives change but do not end. In company with Christ, who died and now lives, may they rejoice in Your kingdom, where all our tears are wiped away. Unite us together again in one family, to sing Your praise forever and ever. Heal our grief, merciful Lord, strengthen our hope that we, too, will one day share in the resurrection of your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen