God in his infinite wisdom, deemed fit to call forth His servant, Monsignor Patrick J. Perez, from this vale of tears, into His eternal rest, the early morning of Thursday, November 18. The day and time of Monsignor’s Requiem Mass are scheduled below.

To Monsignor’s many friends, inveterate parishioners, dear families and supporters:

Monsignor was loved and respected, if for no other reason than the love and respect with which he treated others. He had an innate reverence for precision and order, and nowhere was this more evident than in his love for Latin, the Mass, and Catholic Liturgical Tradition in general. With the loss of his pivotal leadership, a void has already been felt, and many legitimately wonder whether grave change awaits us. It is reasonable to think that change, if any, will be only of a passing nature. Padre Pio Academy will continue its present course of traditional Catholic education as envisioned by Father Fred Schell, and the Chapel will continue to be that source of Traditional grace and inspiration for those seeking the Higher Truth. Monsignor Perez provided documentation near the time of his March, 2021, surgery, that in the event of his death, (1) all Parish (OLHC) property would be transferred to the authority of the Board of Trustees of Padre Pio Academy, who would also, (2) be solely responsible for the timely choice of a new pastor.

Until that time is complete, we encourage you to keep the parish in your prayers and please, continue your weekly or monthly donations to help OLHC through this unexpected period of financial challenge so that the fewest of modifications are made.

Your checks should still be made payable to “OLHC” or “Our Lady Help of Christians”, deposited in the collection at Sunday Mass or mailed ONLY to:

Our Lady Help of Christians 9621 Bixby Ave Garden Grove, CA 92841

*** OLHC priests are unable to accept new Mass Intention Requests at this time ***

Monsignor Perez’ annual “labor of love”, the Liturgical Calendars for 2022, are available in the gift shop. This is the last time we shall have the gift of his detailed knowledge of the liturgy and Masses available to us.

The Three Stages of the Spiritual Life by Father Smith