He was so many things to so many people. Priest. Patriot. Chaplain. Counselor. Teacher. Marine. Role Model. Friend. Today marks the fourth anniversary of the death of Rev. Dennis J. Rocheford, formerly pastor of St. Theresa's Church in Blackstone, MA. It is a rarity in life to encounter someone whose innate holiness, genuine spirituality, decency and goodness leaves an indelible impression on you on so many levels. Yet, that was "Father Dennis."
I have previously written about the ability of this man of God to invite parishioners to a Fourth of July Mass and have three hundred respond. How during the penitential season of Lent he would host a Friday evening devotional of the Stations of the Cross and then serve a simple meal of soup and bread and have the parish community room filled with people seeking fellowship and spiritual nourishment.
He was a highly decorated Commander in the US Navy Reserve with tours in several countries including Iraq. He was described as "a Marine's Marine." His life story deserves to be the basis of a movie. The mere thought of which he would have pushed aside embarrassed by the "fuss."
He had the enviable quality to connect with everyone and anyone. Male, female; young, old; Catholic, nonCatholic; parishioner, stranger. Every reader who knew Father Dennis, however briefly, is reflecting today on their own "Father Dennis story." His memory lives on in thousands of hearts that still ache due to his absence among us. "Please take care of each other."
