Fr. Kenneth Walker

Something terrible took place this week, a tragedy so awful, I can hardly fathom it. A friend of mine, a priest, was murdered in his rectory on Wednesday night.



"Kenny" as we called him, 2005


We went to university together ten years ago and he was a great friend to me back then. 

He was an exceptionally pious young man, which made him almost child-like. It was impossible not to be endeared to him, because he was so kind, so joyful and completely without pretence.

He was hard-working in his studies, deeply devoted to the Mass and his prayer life, and poured so much zeal into everything he did, even moving; dear Kenny seemed to live by the motto, "why walk when you can sprint?"


From our yearbook, 2004

I enjoyed our conversations immensely. Because he was such a rare mix of reverent and yet light-hearted, it was easy to open up to him about anything. I suppose that is a mark of a good priest, being warm and disarming so that souls feel comfortable in confiding in them. While I was studying at the Academy, I was considering a religious vocation, and it was helpful and refreshing being able to discuss this with him. 

He was struck down so early in his priestly vocation. I grieve that. But I am just overjoyed that he made it to his ordination. It had been his sole desire from a very young age; praise God he got to fulfill his dream. Now he is a priest forever.

Rest in peace, brother. You will be missed.

Comments

  1. Mama PJune 14, 2014 at 12:03 PM

    I have been reading story after story about this bright young man. Even today I suspect you have a new and powerful intercessor in Heaven. I am praying for him and his family and large circle of devoted friends. May God give all of you solace!

    ReplyDelete
  2. UnknownJune 14, 2014 at 12:16 PM

    thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousJune 14, 2014 at 9:51 PM

    Thanks for your words, Jenna. He truly was a wonderful soul and it is good to hear your memories of him.

    ReplyDelete

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