Celebrating a Life of Service: Requiem Mass for Fr. Reiner Franke, SVD

On January 11, 2025, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao, presided over the Requiem Mass for Fr. Reiner Franke, SVD, at San Pedro Cathedral in Davao City. Fr. Franke peacefully passed away on January 7, 2025, at the age of 85. His passing marked the end of a life devoted to service, faith, and the mission of the Catholic Church, particularly in the Philippines.

Born in Essen-Borbeck, Germany, in 1939, Fr. Reiner entered the Novitiate of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in 1960 and professed his first vows in 1962. He made his perpetual vows in 1968 and was ordained a priest the following year. Fr. Reiner dedicated much of his life to the formation of future priests in Mindanao, a role he cherished deeply. From 1975 to 1981, he served as the Dean of the Divine Word Seminary in Tagaytay, a position that allowed him to influence the lives and faith of many seminarians.

Fr. Reiner’s commitment to the mission of the SVD was unwavering, and his influence was felt across various institutions. He served as a professor, formator, and spiritual mentor to countless seminarians, helping to shape the future of the Church in the region. Additionally, he held key administrative roles as Procurator and Financial Adviser at the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao, contributing not only to the spiritual formation of future priests but also to the logistical and financial aspects of their education.

The Requiem Mass at San Pedro Cathedral was a poignant occasion, attended by a large number of diocesan and religious priests, as well as bishops. Fr. Antonio Pernia, SVD, former rector of the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao, delivered the homily. In his reflection, Fr. Pernia emphasized that “the greatest tragedy in life is not death, but living life without a purpose.” He went on to highlight that Fr. Reiner’s life was never about himself but was always centered on God and others. His selfless service and dedication to the mission of the Church made a lasting impact on the lives of all who knew him.

The celebration of the Holy Eucharist during the Requiem Mass was solemn and deeply reverent, as the community gathered to honor the life of Fr. Reiner and entrust his soul to God. His legacy of faith, service, and love for others continues to inspire those who were touched by his ministry.

Fr. Reiner Franke, SVD, leaves behind a remarkable legacy of commitment to the priesthood and to the people of Mindanao. His life was a testament to the power of faith and the importance of living a life dedicated to the service of God and others. His passing is a great loss, but his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those he served. (Sem. Aljon Mayol)