One by one, a devoted La Salette lay leader uncovers and restores the grave markers of seventy missionaries, remembering the lives behind each name.

A beautiful act of love and ministry was performed by Bob Nomakeo, one of our enthusiastic and dedicated La Salette laity leaders from Holy Trinity Parish in Westfield, Massachusetts.

Bob recently visited Bloomfield Cemetery in Connecticut, where many of our deceased Missionaries of La Salette are laid to rest. He went to clean and care for the grave markers of our missionaries. What began as a cleaning task soon became, for him, a deeply moving experience of remembrance, gratitude, and prayer.

Bob carefully cleaned the monument and each grave marker, removing years of moss and mildew. Some markers had sunk into the ground, but he uncovered them one by one, ensuring all seventy received his attention and care. As he recognized the names of priests and brothers who had gone before us, Bob said he found himself shedding a tear for each. He felt he could not leave until every marker had been uncovered and cared for.

What a beautiful gesture of love from our La Salette laity! This is truly a ministry of remembrance, honoring those who gave their lives to the Church and to the mission of reconciliation. The work of his hands, the warmth of his heart, and even the tears he shed is celebrated as he uncovered their names and remembered their lives.

May these seventy Missionaries, whose resting places felt the touch and loving care, now intercede for you. And may Our Lady of La Salette, whom they loved and served throughout their lives, continue to accompany and bless you and each of us.
The actions of Bob was a beautiful witness of what it means to be part of the La Salette family.