“Father Mark did not resist the Providence of God in his life. He accepted it with faith, hope and charity. He bore it heroically and with tremendous courage and fortitude, and in so doing, he set forth a pattern for each of us, no matter how we’re called ultimately to give ourselves to God in this world and at the end of our lives.” Fr. Michael Callea, MIC The Letter The Very Rev. Jan M. Rokosz, MIC, succeeded Fr. Mark as Superior General. On July 7 [2007], with Fr. Mark in the midst of this lethal bout with cancer, Fr. Jan sent him the following letter: I really want to spend my time helping. I won’t have to worry about sleeping. I won’t have to worry about anything. I will be available!” Dear Fr. Mark: Greetings in Christ! Numerous Marians throughout the world have been asking that I convey to you on their behalf, our great affection for you and our spiritual closeness to you during this difficult time of trial for you. I willingly do this from the heart, since I think of you and pray for you every day. Many of our confreres remember you because you have touched their lives, especially in your capacity as Superior General from 1999-2005. Please know that your witness, throughout your religious life but especially now during your time of suffering, is cherished and appreciated. The difficult path that the Lord has set out for you is one that you must walk alone. However, know that we are united in spirit with you, and with all the Marians and associates who are assisting you on this path. You are not forgotten; rather, we feel especially close to you now. I will always treasure the opportunity we had recently to pray together at the Shrine in Lourdes. We were united in spirit with our Immaculate Mother and with our soon-to-be beatified Founder, Fr. Stanislaus Papczynski, along with all the Marians who have gone before us. Thank you, Fr. Mark, for you great witness, and for the love you have shown. We continue to pray for your complete healing and recovery. Your gift of self is bearing great fruit for the Congregation. Please be assured of our prayers and love for you always. Sincerely yours in Christ, Very Rev. Jan M. Rokosz, MIC Superior General Fr. Mark Garrow – PRAY FOR US! Excerpts taken from: www.thedivinemercy.org/articles/father-mark-garrow-mic-1955-2007 Image from:www.thedivinemercy.org/articles/gentle-generous-humble It came as no surprise to anyone at his wake to learn of one of Fr. Mark’s dying wishes. He shared it with Fr. Kaz [Chwalek] about four months ago, when he realized he would probably soon die. He told Fr. Kaz that one of the things he planned to ask the Lord was for permission in heaven to continue his work on behalf of the Marians and the people in his life. .
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