Pat Barcas photo
Trades people, union leaders and their family members recently gathered at Our Lady of Mount Carmel church in Darien to look back and say goodbyes to the union members that have died during the past year.
By Pat Barcas
Staff Writer,
Thursday, Sept. 12, 2013
DARIEN — “Death kills bodies, it doesn’t kill relationships.”
These wise words of consolation were said by Rev. Gavin Quinn as he looked back and said goodbyes to the union members that have died over the past year.
Quinn oversaw the 73rd annual All Faiths Memorial Service, held Sept. 7 in Darien and hosted by the Chicago and Cook County Building Trades Council.
Trades people, union leaders and their family members gathered at Our Lady of Mount Carmel church for the memorial service, which Quinn led to, “Dedicate to the members of our affiliated organizations who died during the past year and for the spiritual needs of labor and their families.”
He said a gospel from the Last Supper is important in living a good life.
“Do something nice for someone else, everyday. And do not let your heart be troubled, have faith in God. Jesus said that right before he died,” said Quinn. “Think about the people that have been part of your journey. Each of us is a combined product of everyone we’ve ever known.”
Tom Villanova, president of the Cook County Building Trades Council served as a lecter along with Ralph Affrunti, secretary treasurer, and Brian Glynn, vice president.
The Lord’s prayer was recited along with hymns before Communion was offered.
Rev. Quinn recited some prayers specific to the trades.
“Have your tools ready, God will give you work. You have to be union strong and family strong and faithful to the promises you’ve made,” he said.
Final prayers were offered to oppressed workers around the world, for the victims of Sept. 11, for the conflict in Syria, for the safety of those who serve in the armed forces, for those who are suffering from a serious illness in the trades, for tradesmen tragically killed on the job site, and for deceased men and women in the building trades.
Quinn asked the audience to reflect on their lives after the service.
“What words would you use to put on someone else’s tombstone? What would they put on yours? What can I do better? Do the most loving thing everyday, and remember those that have gone before us.”