Indeed, he served the Lord until his last breath.
Last June 25, 2017, a very sad news came when Rev. Fr. Jesus G. Cruz, or more popularly known as Fr. Jess, met his Creator at the age of 64. People from all walks of life came to see him for the very last time as his remains were laid in the Knights of Columbus chamber hall the following day, June 26 around 9 o’ clock in the morning. Msgr. Andres Valera, H.P., S.L.L., E.V. accepted and welcomed his stay in the hall until June 29 where he was brought to his final resting place.
Fr. Jess was well loved by his parishioners wherever he was assigned. He was officially ordained as a priest on December 6, 1986. A native of Calumpit, Bulacan, he has been a journeyman during the length of his vocation. He was a former parish priest of Sagrada Familia Church before he became an attached priest in St. Augustine Parish Church. He also used to celebrate the First Friday masses here in our school before he decided to rest temporarily due to health reasons.
He has battled cancer for a long time, endured numerous chemotherapy sessions before succumbing to it in the evening of June 25. The community witnessed his courage and resistance, and they admired him for staying positive despite of his ailment that continuously attempted to break his spirit.
A lot of people will never forget his humility, his sound advices, his sensible homilies, and his unending service to God and to the people. As his favorite quote goes, “QVANTUM SERVIRE POTEST” meaning “To serve as much as I can”. He truly lived his life of genuine service that all of us can emulate. The entire community of MDSF extend our condolences to Fr. Jess’ family and we are one with the community in grieving for his demise and praying for the eternal repose of his soul. We will surely miss him. Let us continue to remember and celebrate his life of dedication and sincere service to the Lord. He is finally home at peace with our Creator to the paradise where he truly belongs.
Rev. Fr. Jesus Gonzales Cruz December 25, 1963 – June 25, 2017
By Vhon Joseph C. Solomon