Requiem Mass Held for the Late Fr. Jeremiah Burr, M.M.

The St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Sasa, Davao City, held a solemn Requiem Mass on January 10, 2025, for the repose of the soul of Fr. Jeremiah “Jerry” Burr, M.M. who died in the Skilled Nursing Unit at Maryknoll, New York on December 18, 2024. Archbishop Romulo G. Valles presided over the Mass, honoring the legacy of Fr. Burr, a beloved Maryknoll missionary who served the Davao Region for over five decades.

In his homily, Archbishop Valles reflected on Fr. Burr’s life and ministry, emphasizing the deep faith and commitment that defined his service. “We remember Fr. Jerry in this Mass, but always in the Mass, it is the Lord who remembers the dead,” he said, underscoring the Eucharist as the ultimate act of remembrance.

The Archbishop highlighted four qualities that encapsulated Fr. Burr’s character: his love for leading people in prayer, his deep connection with the community, his joyful companionship with fellow priests, and his sensitivity to those in need. These traits made him not only a devoted priest but also a compassionate servant to the people he served.

One testimony came from Mr. Dario Mangilimutan, an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. He recalled how, during the aftermath of Typhoon Pablo in 2012, Fr. Burr asked him to accompany him to Davao Oriental with a sack, which he later discovered was filled with money to aid those in need. This selfless act exemplified Fr. Burr’s commitment to alleviating suffering and providing hope.

Fr. Burr’s journey as a missionary began in 1967 when he arrived in the Philippines. He served in various parishes across Davao and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless faithful. His dedication to prayer, pastoral care, and community outreach earned him the love and respect of the people he served.

As the congregation bid farewell to Fr. Burr, their prayers echoed the gratitude and love for a man whose heart remained with the Filipino people until his final days. Daghang salamat, Fr. Jerry. Rest in peace.