|
St. Johns seeks normalcy in darkness of tragedy
By Andrew Junker, ajunker@catholicsun.org
November 20, 2008
The Nov. 5 murders of Vincent Romero and Timothy Romans continue to mystify residents of the small town of St. Johns, Ariz., especially since Romero’s 8-year-old son has been charged in the fatal shootings.
But Fr. John Paul Sauter, pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish, where Romero was a member, has advised parishioners to focus on prayer.
“Everyone’s trying to sort it out,” Fr. Sauter said. “But it’s nothing you can understand. It’s an irrational act. Stop trying to figure it out.”
The priest remembered the two victims lending a helpful hand in the small community of about 4,000. They would often help neighbors close up their air conditioning for the winter or assist people moving.
“They were always willing to help,” he said. “It was a priority for them.”
Fr. Sauter said that the parish and larger community have been supportive of the victims’ families following the tragedy. Romero had a large extended family, he said, and parishioners have kept a steady supply of prayers and meals coming their way.
“The parish is just very supportive of each other,” he said. “This is a large family. I’ve prayed the rosary and talked with them. The Legion of Mary has been praying the rosary.”
Romero was laid to rest Nov. 10 with more than 600 packing the small St. John the Baptist church. A funeral was planned for Romans last Saturday.
And now, Fr. Sauter hopes things will calm down for the families of the victims. After the descent of many national and international media outlets, it’s time for some quiet, he said.
“Right now,” he said, “they’re just trying to get some rest.”
St. Johns is located in the eastern region of Arizona and is part of the Diocese of Gallup.
|
