At 4:45 Friday evening, our franciscan chaplain Fr. Tony Gonsalves, who lives at San Damiano Friary across the street from us in Duncan, was coming to join us for evening prayer as usual, with one of the other friars.
He collapsed in our driveway in the midst of a conversation and had a massive heart attack. We called 911, and did CPR, but they were unable to do anything for him. He was only 75 and will leave a huge hole among the many people whose lives he touched with his goodness.
Fr Tony was a gentle compassionate man, whose faith was lived out much like that of Pope Francis. Mercy and compassion were always how he dealt with people in difficult situations, always modelling God's forgiveness. He was truly a man of joy, who loved his franciscan vocation and priesthood.
As shocked as we all are, we were so blessed to be with him as he was surrounded by the outdoor beauty and both his franciscan brothers and sisters as he journeyed home to God. May he now rest in peace in the fullness of God's light and love. Thank you Fr Tony, for the way you have enriched our lives. May your goodness live on forever through us.
Please pray all of those who loved him so dearly, and who are trying to deal with this sudden and unexpected loss.
