Bishop Michael F. Burbidge marked the 20th anniversary of Bishop John R. Keating’s death at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More March 22. Bishop Keating died of a heart attack during his ad Limina visit Rome March 22, 1998 at the age of 63, just two days after an audience with Pope John Paul II.

"The anniversary of Bishop Keating’s death is a powerful reminder of the lesson that is at the heart of this Lenten season: we are dust and unto dust we shall return." Bishop Michael F. Burbidge

At the anniversary, Mass Bishop Burbidge was joined by Bishop Emeritus Paul S. Loverde and Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the Archdiocese for the Military Services. Eight other priests concelebrated, including Father Paul D. Scalia, Father Robert J. Rippy and Father Thomas P. Ferguson all of whom were ordained by Bishop Keating.

“The anniversary of Bishop Keating’s death is a powerful reminder of the lesson that is at the heart of this Lenten season: we are dust and unto dust we shall return,” said Bishop Burbidge during the homily. “In other words, our lives here on earth are merely a journey leading us to a destination for which we all long: life with God in the Kingdom of Heaven.”

After Mass, Bishop Burbidge was accompanied to the cathedral crypt by Archbishop Broglio, Bishop Loverde and the priests to pray by the tomb of Bishop Keating. The crypt was left open after the Mass and a number of parishioners were able to pay their respects.

St. Agnes Church parishioner Sally Yenson remembers Bishop Keating from when she first arrived in the diocese saying he seemed very young at heart. She was happy to be able to attend the Mass and pray at the crypt.

“I have a very deep devotion for praying for the priests of our diocese,” said Yensen. “I remember Bishop Keating and pray for his intersession.”