Richard Murphy's Funeral Homily, Monday September 16, 2024.

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Our beloved brother, Richard Murphy, has gone home to be with the Lord. We are saddened for our loss of a faithful brother, yet we come here with joy to celebrate the fulfilment of his long earthly life and his entry into eternity.

As a faithful Catholic, he received all the necessary sacraments and was well prepared for his final walk from here to forever. We believe his soul is at peace, we too, are at peace for him.

Murphy was a true servant of God. He began serving as an altar server in his home parish in Manson, Iowa, when he was a young boy and was also an active member of this Parish when he moved to Des Moines. Here at St. Ambrose, was where Murphy worshipped and served the Lord for the past few decades.

Murphy was one of the first people I met during my first weeks here in 2021. I fondly remember him as someone who was either first or early in many things. He would arrive early for Knights of Columbus meetings, walking to the parish hall with his walker, and waiting patiently for me to unlock the door to the parish hall. When we started the Amazing Ambrosian column for the parish bulletin, Murphy's story was the first to be featured. He would also be the first in line to receive Holy Communion at Saturday Mass. And now, he has gone ahead of us to receive his eternal reward.

In the first reading, God assures us through prophet Isaiah of His faithful, unwavering and attentive love for Israel. He loves all His children the same. God will never forsake or forget us.

Murphy, I have never heard you complain about your illness. You always found hope in the Lord and joy in the present moment. Even amidst pain, you bore it silently, uniting it with Jesus on the cross. You showed us how God’s love journeyed with you through your suffering.

In the second reading, St. Paul advises us to be courageous, keeping our eyes focused on the eternal life, to “aspire to please Him, whether we are at home or away.”

Murphy, you pleased God through your life. Your love for the Eucharist, the Rosary, and the Mass showed us how much you lived to honor and please God.

In the Gospel, Jesus tells us to have faith in Him and in God, that there are many dwelling places for all of us. One day when it is our turn to step into heaven, we will see Murphy, our friends and loved ones who have gone before us in the vast dwelling of God. Yes, there is more than enough space for everyone.

Murphy, you had been a great example of Christian living for us. You were kind, loving, easy to get along with anyone, you enjoyed the company of others, and it was easy for anyone to enjoy being around you. I appreciate your presence at the Knights activities. It was such a joy to see you enjoying the bowling nights and being happy with simple stuff. I remember your 90th birthday celebration at Blank Park Zoo, it was evident that many people loved you and treasured your friendship.

I also want to extend my gratitude to the parishioners of St. Ambrose, especially Diane, George, and Karen, who took care of Murphy’s daily needs in his last days and to our Knights of Columbus members who visited him while he was ill and brought him Communion. A special thanks to the hospice nurses, who made sure he was comfortable.

Murphy, we will miss you at our Saturday 4 p.m. Mass. Our Knights meetings will be different without you. Murphy, you faithfully served the Church, lived your life to the fullest, and shared love and joy with us. You will be deeply missed.

May you rest in the peace of Christ.

Amen.


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