Greater Love in memory of Richie Fernando

Summary

This heartfelt and emotional transcript recounts the life and tragic death of Ricci, a Jesuit missionary who served in Cambodia, helping disabled students at a school for the handicapped. Ricci’s deep love for his students and his commitment to their well-being are evident, as is his ultimate sacrifice when he saves a student from a grenade attack, losing his life in the process. The story reflects the horrors of war, the resilience of those affected by it, and the power of compassion and faith in transforming lives. It underscores the enduring impact of Ricci's mission and legacy.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ricci, a Jesuit missionary, was sent to Cambodia in 1995 to serve disabled students at a technical school for the handicapped, bringing both material and spiritual aid.
• 😀 Ricci quickly formed a strong bond with his students, especially those disabled by landmines, and expressed deep love and commitment to helping them overcome their challenges.
• 😀 Despite his initial reservations, Ricci found himself profoundly affected by the lives of the people he served, particularly the disabled students, growing in empathy and love for them.
• 😀 Ricci’s popularity among the Cambodian people was evident, as he quickly learned the language and became a beloved figure, known affectionately as 'Ritchie'.
• 😀 A tragic incident occurred on October 17th when a student, Sarong, expelled for behavioral issues, attempted to kill others with a grenade. Ricci intervened, preventing further disaster.
• 😀 In a heroic act, Ricci physically restrained Sarong and prevented the grenade from reaching a classroom full of students, but the grenade exploded, fatally injuring Ricci.
• 😀 Ricci’s death shocked the school community, particularly the disabled students, who mourned deeply, reflecting the profound impact he had on their lives.
• 😀 Sarong, the student responsible for the grenade incident, showed deep remorse and apologized in letters to Ricci’s family, expressing sorrow for his actions.
• 😀 Ricci’s family, particularly his father, responded to Sarong's apology with compassion, emphasizing understanding over blame, acknowledging the trauma Sarong had endured in his own life.
• 😀 Ricci’s memorial service in Cambodia was a deeply emotional event, where the community, including students and staff, came together to honor his sacrifice, reflecting on the broader impacts of war, trauma, and the need for compassion and peace.

Q & A

What was Ricci's role in Cambodia?

Ricci was a Jesuit missionary who worked at a school for disabled students in Cambodia, focusing on both the material and spiritual needs of the teachers and students. He was deeply involved with the local community, learning the language and building strong relationships with the people.

How did Ricci feel about his work and the people he served?

Ricci expressed a profound emotional connection with the disabled students at the school. He was affected by their struggles and felt great love for them, even stating that they brought out the best in him and that he wished to offer his life to them fully.

What was the incident involving Sarong at the school?

Sarong, a student at the school, was involved in an incident where he tried to take his own life and the lives of others by pulling the pin from a hand grenade. Ricci intervened, attempting to stop him, and in the process, the grenade exploded, fatally injuring Ricci.

What happened to Ricci after the grenade explosion?

After the grenade exploded, Ricci was severely injured and later died from his wounds. Despite his injuries, he had saved many lives by preventing the student from throwing the grenade into a classroom full of students, which could have led to even greater tragedy.

How did the community react to Ricci's death?

The community, especially the disabled students at the school, were deeply shocked and devastated by Ricci's death. Many cried, and students kept vigil, grieving the loss of someone who had been a friend and mentor to them.

What was the response of Sarong after the incident?

Sarong, the student responsible for the grenade explosion, showed deep remorse for his actions. He expressed regret through a letter, saying he did not intend to kill Ricci and acknowledging that Ricci had been a friend to him. His apology was heartfelt and filled with sorrow.

How did Ricci's family react to the situation?

Ricci's family, particularly his father, showed understanding and compassion toward Sarong. Despite the tragic loss, they forgave Sarong, acknowledging the circumstances that led to the incident, and recognizing the deep pain and trauma that both Sarong and Ricci had experienced.

What is the significance of Ricci's death within the broader context of Cambodia's history?

Ricci's death is a poignant reminder of the long-lasting impact of war on the people of Cambodia, particularly the disabled individuals who have suffered greatly from landmines and other consequences of conflict. His sacrifice highlights the importance of compassion, peacebuilding, and healing in a society recovering from the trauma of war.

What did Ricci's actions teach the community and his fellow missionaries?

Ricci's actions embodied selfless love and sacrifice. He taught the community the importance of putting others first, particularly those who are marginalized or suffering. His life and death serve as a powerful example of Christian compassion and the transformative power of serving others.

What role did religion and spirituality play in Ricci's work in Cambodia?

Religion, particularly Christianity, played a central role in Ricci's work. He saw his mission as a vocation to serve God and the people, particularly the disabled, and believed that through love and service, he was living out the teachings of Jesus Christ. His faith was a source of strength and guidance in his ministry.