Closing the chapter
Heartfelt and emotional retirement anniversary for Summerside priest
After 50 years in service the Reverend Joseph Brazel celebrated his retirement anniversary with a few laughs, tears and wise advice.
“You have happy times, sad times, and rough times,” he said to a congregation of more than 100 people. “Sometimes there are no words when someone dies of an accident or a suicide and you are just there to offer support and comfort. And it’s important to always stay humble because if you don’t you learn pretty quickly.”
Brazel, aged 78, recounted when an RCMP officer stopped him and asked if he could assist him with breaking news to a mother about the death of her son.
He didn’t always have the words, but he was a “priest of the people.”
Members flocked to St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Summerside recently to celebrate the closing anniversary chapter of Brazel’s service.
Often referred to as simply “Father Joe,” his calling took him around P.E.I., and even as far as Israel, helping people understand the gospel. Doug MacDougall said, “He is a priest of the people. He made commitments to visit people in the community and in rural areas who were restricted maybe because of transportation or disability. And his overall personality, strong faith, and value of people we won’t forget. He was just an awesome priest.”
Brazel started at St. Paul’s Church as an associate pastor four years ago. He rallied his parishioners to confront their fears while lifting up the community.
“One fond memory I have of Father Joe is when he baptized our three adopted young children at the same time and it was quite a celebration for our family and friends. The church was full and he just made that such a happy occasion. He was joyful, engaging, and made that sacrament a very special celebration,” said MacDougall.
Reverend Chris Sherren of St. Paul’s Church said, “He’s brings such a joy to the room on Saturday night mass, to the point where everyone wants to meet him at the end.”