In Paradisum

We celebrated the life and mourned the passing of a great woman this past Saturday. Joan Dangel was a charter member of the Stitchers for St. Anthony. She just missed celebrating their 25th anniversary next month. She volunteered in the dining room every Wednesday. She was such a joyful, radiant, loving presence for us and our guests.

Her children and grandchildren told wonderful stories about her, but the one that really hit me came from a neighbor in Pacifica. Joan never learned to drive. Every Wednesday Joan would be standing at the bus stop to come and volunteer, usually holding a bag of donations for our guests. Even in the pouring rain she’d faithfully and patiently wait for the bus.

For all the poor and homeless mothers and their children she knit and sewed for, and for all the guests, volunteers, and staff she cheered with her presence, and for the devotion and compassion that lit her up like the sun, we give thanks.

May the Angels lead you into paradise:
may the Martyrs come to welcome you,
and take you to the holy city, Jerusalem.
May choirs of Angels welcome you,
and with Lazarus who is poor no longer
may you have eternal rest.