To Father Michael O’Keefe

On the Golden Anniversary of Your Ordination

From one whose life has been touched by your love

“Well Done My Good and Faithful Servant”

With your life you have served Him

In ways known to others

And in ways known only unto He

Over 50 years ago you began a journey of faith

A life of trust, a journey of love and selflessness

Serving His Church in good times and times of trouble

In steady times and in times of great restlessness

Your faith has been tested. You have questioned, and grown

As the prophet once asked Him

“Would You not spare the city if I could find only one good man”

And He answered “yes, I will spare it be if you can”.

In this flawed and human city in which mankind lives

You have shown forth your light as that “good man”

And brought all closer to Him by your life

In what you have said and done, since your life in Him began

Humble teacher, loving counselor, and skilled leader

You bring His word to all you meet

He is surely proud of You and your love

And gives you His loving grace daily as you still seek

Humble servant, dearest creation, and priest forever

We are blessed by you, your work, and your life

As you continue on the mission His Son asked of you:

“Bring the good news; that the Kingdom of God is at Hand”

*

In deep appreciation for the example you have shown me,

Andy Cirmo, May 7^th 2006