A memorial mass and gathering is planned for Bishop Jerry Rafalko on Oct. 21. The service will take place at the Holy Trinity Polish National Catholic Church, located at 716 N. Tremont St, at 5 pm. The gathering is set to follow the service at approximately 6 pm at the VFW Post 8078, located at 200 W. 5th St. in Kewanee.
The Holy Trinity PNCC recently announced the event for the longtime pastor and Hospice Chaplain for OSF Healthcare. Bishop Rafalko was also the Bishop of the Western Diocese of the Polish National Catholic Church, a position he held since Sept. 14, 2020. He passed away earlier this year on July 13, 2023.
“We will be honored to host all of those who loved Bishop Jerry, and hope to have a worthy memorial in his honor,” said Father John Cramer, current pastor of the Kewanee church.
The gathering will be an open house style, with refreshments, including polish sausage and slider appetizers. All are welcome to attend the service, gathering or both.
Holy Trinity PNCC has been a part of Kewanee since 1928.
“We are here to serve the spiritual needs of all in Kewanee, Illinois who have a desire to worship our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and receive His Sacraments,” Father Cramer said.
