Fr. Philip Peter Sherlock (1936-2017) was a titan because he influenced multitudes by refining the difficult challenges of illuminating passionate Catholic spirituality while, at the same time, remaining firmly anchored on the earth.

Although I first met Fr. Phil barely two years ago, my friendship with him will remain one of life's treasured experiences! He was a titan who used his influence for the common good. 

All who had the good fortune of receiving father's shepherding unanimously agreed that he had a rare gift for crafting sermons that integrated theology, culture, society, doctrine, visionaries and anecdotes.  All this delivered succinctly, compellingly and, above all, persuasively!

Father Phil's sudden passing has broken my heart and the hearts of multitudes paying their last respects. His flock must have noticed his propensity to soldier on despite all odds...we were witnessing the power of the indomitable Holy Spirit which he unmistakably embodied...certainly a sign of God's Grace that he lived and died within the 24 hours marking his 55th anniversary of ordination! And a grace that became significantly intensified on Pentecost Sunday, June 4th.

God equipped our parish priest with the courage to go beyond human constraints resulting in teaching us Gospel principles using outstanding insight, charm, and stunning wit! And who among us cannot repeat at least one of father's jokes delivered in the style of late night TV-esque monologues! Kind of makes me jealous of God enjoying Fr. Phil now - while we grieve.

Still, we trust in our Lord's reasons and authority as we try to imitate Fr. Phil's humanity; you know...the way he greeted each and every person entering the church...as if they were the last person on earth!

I hope that my little story captures at least a modicum of the depth, breath, and height of the inspired priestly ministry of Father Phil...in imitation of Jesus, The Good Shepherd. This is Linda Hazelden signing off now from the Father Phil Fan Club...athough unsolicited...my sharing is offered with all due respect, love, and admiration!

We pray: Then on the last day, when Philip meets the Lord face to face, He will say: 'Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of the Lord' +