Vespers for the Dead

One year ago, our parishes of Holy Rosary and Visitation were deep in prayer for the health and soul of our pastor, Rev. Michael Wagner.

On April 10 2018, Father Wagner collapsed during the celebration of the holy Mass.

He was admitted to hospital with an irreversible brain hemorrhage. The doctors advised his family and the archdiocese that he was unlikely to survive. The parish plea for prayers went viral on social media, with more than 250,000 people reached.

Prayers and well wishes poured in from all over the world, with every continent (except Antarctica!) represented. Masses were said for Father throughout the United States and throughout Poland.

Early in the morning of May 2, 2018, Father Michael Wagner passed to God.

That evening, our parishes came together to chant Solemn Vespers from the Office for the Dead. Rev. Nicholas Wichert, our former pastor, graciously came down to lead us in the liturgy.

We had a full choir in the sanctuary from both parishes, led by our amazing choir director, Victoria Solenberger. Father Wagner’s biretta remained upon the low altar throughout.

It was heartbreakingly beautiful.

Now, on the first anniversary of his death, the communities and choirs are coming together again to sing the Office of the Dead, this time at Visitation Church.

Please join us on the evening of Thursday, May 2, at 7:00 pm at Visitation Church, located at 3314 South 58th Street in Tacoma.