Alicia Brillantes Flores
New to Houston and yet unregistered in any parish in 2004, I was drawn to Fr. John's charisma and humor and singled him out to preside over my wedding. His generosity with his time, openness, and gentle acceptance of cultural and religious diversity to service guest parishioners like me (my husband being non-denominational and me being Catholic) will forever be appreciated, treasured, and remembered.
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the Sole family
On this Christmas Eve, our family is praying that Father John is rejoicing being Home this Christmas. In this holy season, we pray for peace and love in our hearts and homes as a tribute to our Pastor, Father John.
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Parishioner
My family and I will never forget the encouragment Fr. John gave us when we were going through a difficult situation. He asked us to trust in His Divine Mercy. He not only preached Divine Mercy, he also practiced it in his life. Even in his suffering and deep and unbearable pain, he showed us how to trust in God's Divine Mercy. The Divine Mercy statue in front of our church is one of his great legacies. Fr. John will be pleading God's mercy for us in heaven, too.
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Shawn Hughes
Father John was my uncle and someone I looked up to and admired. I am very proud to have had him for the time I did. I have grown to love the many staff members of the churches in which he served; St. Vincent's has been no different. They are all just like an extension of our own family. The celebration of his life was amazing. I know my uncle would be proud of the wonderful send-off and tribute to his life. He will be missed immeasurably by all, myself included. May God bless you all and as my Uncle Johnny would say "Jesus, I Trust In You." God bless all of you who have remembered my uncle and my family, it means more than even I as the family poet could ever put into words.
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Katie McCurry
Father John was an inspiration and a joy to all he met and the best cousin a girl could ask for. All of my life, I have been fortunate to have his spiritual guidance and love. As a priest, he baptized me- Katie in Katy, TX- and I watched as he married and baptized so many of our family members (he could give one hell of a wedding homily!). As a cousin, he has taught me so much about perseverance, courage, and trust. I had the great fortune of getting to see him both as Father John with his gentle pastoral nature and as Johnny with his great sense of humor and love for his family. He suffered a lot this last year with his cancer, but never did he stop saying, "Jesus, I trust in You." He loved all his parish families dearly and our family is so grateful for the outpouring of love and support from all of you. We laid him to rest this weekend in Iowa and I know he is truly at peace with his heavenly Father. Although I have a big hole in my heart (as many of us do right now), I am confident that we have a special guardian angel watching over us.
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maddie mccury
He was so nice to all of us.
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natalie cox
Fr.John was the best loving, caring and respectful priest in my life. I am so upset that he passed away. He always had a smile on his face.
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Francisco J. Garcia-Torres, MD
I was very saddened to hear that Father Weyer had died. I am a parishioner at St. Thomas More but had met him previously at some weekday Masses since my office is so close to the church. He was truly a "people's priest". His devotion to the Divine Mercy came forth effortlessly. I then met him "officially" when I was the Houston Center Coordinator for the Apostleship of the Cross and was interested in starting a section at St. Vincent de Paul. He supported our efforts and fell in love with Conchita's writings, especially regarding the priesthood and the Eucharist. Our groups had prayed for him during these past couple of years and for the repose of his soul during our 25th anniversary Mass this past December 13. He will be missed!
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George Joseph
I spoke with Fr.John, face to face, only one time. That time he was the vicar of St. Laurence Church in Sugar Land .When I met him he was on the driveway of his home. Actually I went there to see Fr. Chacko. My question to him was "Is this where Fr. Chacko lives?". Fr. John guided me with a smile on his face. I remember this now like yesterday. I will remember him always.
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John Knoebel
Thank you Fr. John for your faithful service to God and His people. I am so sorry that you have left us, but I am so happy that I was fortunate enough to have known you. I was blessed to have been at two of your parishes, Epiphany of the Lord and St. Laurence. I also had the opportunity to attend weekday masses at St. Vincent's with you. Thank you Fr. John for your efforts to build up our school at St. Laurence. You were such an inspiring leader and a gifted homilist who was loved by parishioners everywhere you served. I remember the huge turnout we had at St. Laurence for your 25th jubilee. People came from near and far to honor you. The last mass of Fr. John's that I attended in 2008 was just as spirit-filled as the first mass of his that I attended in 1985. This past year, it was amazing to witness his courageous efforts to persevere in his priestly vocation in such a heroic manner. He showed us the way to heaven through his words and actions. At the farewell homily at St. Laurence, Fr. John stated that if he did not see us at another parish, he looked forward to seeing us some day in the everlasting joy of heaven! Fr. John, I am looking forward to that fourth time that our paths will cross. I know that thousands of souls today and in the future will be looking you up in heaven to thank you for your help in getting them to their heavenly reward. Well done, good and faithful servant. Jesus, I trust in You.
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John and Stephanie Brendese
Thank you Father for all you have done for the parish. My husband and I met at St Vincent's over 5 years ago and was fortunate to have Fr. John marry us at the same church we had met at in 2005. We always had an additional joy in attending Fr. John's masses as we always liked his homilies and his sense of traditionalism and humor. He was very kind and devout which showed in his service to the parish. We will always carry fond memories of having been blessed to have his spiritual guidance. He will forever live in our hearts and minds. May God bless you always and may you rest in peace!
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Jess & Nieva Medina
We will miss your Sunday homilies.You know when we could use a laugh.I think tribute should be done while one is still alive so this world would be a better place to live.You are an inspiration to many.
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Mo Puyau
His life, his love, his joy, and his trust guided many to Christ. Thank you and Fr. John for a life of loving service. Jesus, I trust in You.
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Michael Kwiatkowski
Father John accomplished so much in a short time at St. Laurence. Yet Father John did not take credit. For Father John rarely used the word "I". My only recollection of Father John doing this was at his farewell sermon at St. Laurence. In addition to thanking everyone, Father John also said, "I" am sorry if he had hurt anyone. Father John showed us what it is to be like Christ.
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Parishoner
Father John has been a great instrument of God. I'm grateful for all Priests, but I think that when a Priest is able to teach people about God's love, and His infinite mercy, and His tenderness towards us, then this Priest has done a great duty! I'm sad for loosing you temporarily, and I'm happy because you are home... and I pray that you make sure we keep getting more Priests who have experienced God's love so they can share it with us. Thank you for the great work you did, for your generosity and for making things available, especially the Sacraments!
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Gary Bentz
Father meant so much to all of my family. The last wedding he did at St. Laurence was my son. He was the most faith filled man I have ever known. We were Brother Knights together at St. Laurence. I always held him up on a pedestal. A very high one. Then one day I was working at church for the KCs. I looked across the parking lot and saw a pickup at the open garage and Fr. John loading it. So I went over to help him. When I got there he introduced me to his mom. She was taking toys and other things he had bought at the garage sale at church. So I loaded them and was tying them down for her when she called me over. "Do you know how to load a truck" she asked. "Yes Mrs Weyer I do this all the time" I told her. "Good", she said," last time Johnny loaded it and it fell out going down the street". I looked at Father and he had covered his face but that huge smile was showing under his hand and he was turning red. I thought "Johnny?" I had never seen Father as Johnny. Only his mom. I know they are happy to once again be together in Heaven with our Lord. We all have a new saint to pray to. But I will miss him very much.
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Hispanic Ministry - Lucy Gardea
We are so sad to lose you and so very grateful to have had you as our pastor. Your words and actions taught us how our Lord is in the smallest acts of kindness and generosity. Your humility of service and love for the less fortunate will be a model for us in how we live our faith. You were so kind to our community. We never told you enough how good it made us feel when you were present at the Spanish Mass. Thank you. Estamos seguros que Dios lo tiene en su Santa Gloria.
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Sue Zelko
Fr. John had a real talent for getting people involved in parish ministries. I was on the Art and Environment committee at St. Laurence about ten years ago when the chairman resigned. Fr. John called me to ask if I would take on the responsibility. I turned him down - four times. When he called the fifth time I finally said yes, if only to get him to stop calling! We would work for 8 hours preparing the church for Christmas or Easter, getting it just right. He would hover. He loved to decorate the church, but he didn't know when to stop. When he decided it looked just right and told us we were finished, we'd say "Yeah, right!" Invariably when we arrived at mass there would be additional candles or plants, or bows on the candle sticks, or something would be moved. He always went back and "tweaked" it after we left! I wouldn't be surprised if you get to the funeral mass to find things slightly rearranged. If he can, he will be sending someone to add one last touch before it starts. I'm sure he's in heaven, beaming his glorious smile at all of God's beautiful creation. I'll miss him.
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A Parishoner at St. Vincent de Paul
Shortly after arriving at St. Vincent's, it may have been his first Sunday to address the parish, Father John recalled that while attending the funeral for Msgr. Jamail and witnessing the outpouring of grief and affection from the parish, he commented to one of his colleagues "who would dare follow this man into this job" as pastor of St. Vincent de Paul? -- only to be tapped for the position himself a few months later. He was amused at the irony of it. I will miss his sense of humor. Father John will also be a hard act to follow. St. Vincent's has been very blessed to have him as our pastor. I will always be grateful to him for introducing me to the Divine Mercy. The sermon he gave on his first Divine Mercy Sunday at St. Vincent's gave me goose bumps. Father John, may you rest in peace and may eternal light shine on you. Cole Dietrich
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Ejikeme Steven Okoroha Jr.
Father John was my favorite Pastor, truly the best I have ever had. He was a tremendous spiritual role model for me and I would always look forward to hearing his homilies. He has been my Pastor for many years now, even when I attended St. Laurence in Sugar Land. He has taught me personally what it means to be a better Christian and what the true meaning of doing God's will is. He will be greatly missed and I hope his soul rests in perfect peace. May his family find peace in their time of suffering.
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Family of Louis O. (Pete) Willrich III
Father John was such a blessing to our family! He presided over several important events for our family, some while he was ill. We are so sad that he is gone, but so grateful for his life and his service. Thanks be to God for his time with us and for granting him peace. We pray for peace for his family and all those who mourn his passing.
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Jessica Montalbo
I started the RCIA class this past summer, and in September Father John did our Rite of Welcoming. I remember him well because he did have a wonderful voice. I did not know him...but just hearing him speak was amazing. I'm sorry to hear of his passing, but comforted to know he is in a better place. My prayers are with his family and friends.
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oscar sarabia jr
Thank you for your counsel during my time of need.
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St. Laurence Parishoner
I especially want to thank Fr. John for his dedication to the Divine Mercy and for introducing it to me and our family. Through his faith and wisdom, I always know even in hurried moments, I can say the simple prayer 'Jesus, I trust in You'. Fr. John will be missed, but faith lives on. May the perpetual light shine upon him.
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Susan Stephenson
I meet Father John during a very difficult time in my life. His guidance helped me beyond measure, more maybe than he ever knew. I will miss him, but know he is now at peace with the Lord. Jesus, I trust in you.
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The Pennell Family
How he will be missed! We thank God for the gift of Fr. John and we take comfort in knowing he now rests in peace. We pray that his loved ones find comfort also.
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Ann and Mike Valdez
Fr John is my cousin. He was an inspiration to our family. His devotion to his parents and siblings was above and beyond all measure. We all attended his ordination to celebrate the blessed life he chose. We were blessed to have him celebrate the sacraments for our family. Our grandmother always put a rosary in our hands as infants and said we were going to be a priest or a nun. Fr. John practiced saying Mass at a very young age. He followed his childhood dream - and found a perfect fit for himself. Fr John married and baptized many of our family. It was always a relief when he was leading our family in the sacraments. He enjoyed coming to Iowa to enjoy the mild weather and visit with his Aunts Catherine and Rose. Bluffton, the town that was home to our great grandparents, was where he wanted to have his final rest. Our family knows that he felt as strongly about his church family. I am sure we will never know the extent of the impact he made on others. His passion for the Divine Mercy was endless. The concelebration of mass at his bedside the night he died will be remembered by me as the most generous gift from Fr's Antony and Pham and the appreciation was expressed with a thumbs up by Fr John when he could barely move. His happy laugh, his appreciation of a good story, the companionship of his dogs and his love of the blessed sacrments will always stand out in my thoughts. Jesus, I trust in you. Ann Valdez
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SVDP Parishioner
My fondest memory of Father John is his sing-song voice. God gave him such a great gift of speech and enunciation that it always kept one attentive and interested his sermons, never bored. Of course his sermons were always wonderful, but he could have made an instruction booklet sound interesting! Then again, I guess he did give us instructions on life... I will miss him!
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Robert & Elizabeth Jaros
May God grant you the reward you justly deserve. You will be missed by our family but not forgotten in prayers.
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Tina Thomas
Fr. John was the pastor at St. Laurence in Sugar Land. This is where I went to church with my family when I was growing up. I did my confirmation there. I went to daily mass during the summers there with my mother in the Divine Mercy Chapel that Fr. John built. When I returned to Houston after college to attend medical school, I found out that my local church was St. Vincent de Paul. I was delighted to find out that the same pastor I had grown up with, Fr. John, was pastor here now. All of this gave me the privilege of really getting to know Fr. John quite well. I have never met a priest who has made more of an impact on my life. His sermons were profound. He had the gift of saying so much with so few words. There was not a sermon of his that did not leave me thinking, leave me inspired, leave me that much more determined to live my life for God. That is what Fr. John did. He dedicated his life to doing God's work. Anyone who knew him knew he was a simple man with a deep devotion to God. Even when he was really sick, I would see him serving God in any way he could. If that meant just being at mass to serve Holy Communion, that is what Fr. John did. The last time Fr. John got really sick, I joked to him that he had to get better because he was the one I wanted to do my wedding. Although he won't be able to be there now, I know the things he has taught me will stay with me for the rest of my life. Fr. John's dedication to the Divine Mercy and his willingness to always 'trust' in God's will for his life have inspired more people than he will ever know. It is with this same trust that I am able to find comfort in his death, knowing that this was God's will for him and that he is now in God's loving arms.
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Mark Preslock
Fr. John was a kind and gentle man who always had a smile on his face. He helped me to find happiness. I always felt a warmth in his presence. The love I feel for him is only matched by how much I miss him now that he is gone. Rest in Peace Fr. John, I will never forget you.
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Jim & Yvette Crumbliss
Father John Weyer was God's gift to St. Laurence Parish, where we knew him, as I'm sure the parishioners at St. Vincent de Paul also feel. He possessed the right mix of priestly attributes; love of God, devotion to the faith, caring about people, and of course, great hair. His homilies were memorable as was his distain for reminding parishioners it was time for Capital Campaign, Diocesan Campaign, etc. He disliked the administrative part of being the pastor, but reveled in being the parish priest. Fr. John was devoted to The Divine Mercy and St. Maria Faustina and enthusiastically created The Chapel of The Divine Mercy at St. Laurence, and was similarly enthusiastic about developing one at St. Vincent de Paul. Yvette and I feel both fortunate and blessed to have known Fr. John Weyer. He was more than our pastor, he was our friend. We will miss him.
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Adela Alvarez
Thank you Father John for your teachings on The Divine Mercy, St. Faustina and Eucharist Adoration, I'm sure you are facing the light of God, the red and white rays emmanated from the heart of Jesus Christ."Jesus I trust in You" You showed me the way.
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George Mannickarottu
Dear Fr. John, as you were called by Jesus Christ for eternal life with him, we the members of the St. Peter's Malankara Catholic Church, Houston extend our deepest condolence. You were a good friend and were helping as when we were having our Sunday Masses in the Divine Mercy chapel of St. Laurence Church at Sugar Land. We are sure you are in the Hands of the Almighty Father. Our prayers are always with you. With love and prayers, George Mannickarottu
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Jim and Carmen Fitzpatrick
At a Family Guild function, we had Fr Weyer over for our home blessing in April 2008. He loved Mexican food and we had homemade Mexican food for him, which he devoured with such joy, even though he was sick. He had such a good time that night and we all enjoyed his wonderful company and laughter. We are so blessed to have had the privilege of knowing him better and having him bless our home. His presence meant so much to us!
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Neera Arya
Father John was my childhood priest at St. Laurence when I was a little girl. I have many fond memories of him coming to my house to chat with my dad and mom. He also did my first communion. My family and I had lost contact with him when he transferred parishes, but he always remained in our hearts. We pray to the lord to help us cope with this sad loss.Father John was a great man, a wonderful priest, and a very dear friend of mine. May his soul rest in peace.
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The Melancon Family
Father John wed me and my husband in 2005. I can never forget the conversations we had before the wedding, during the wedding, and after the wedding. He is an excellent teacher and his spirit will live on within us forever.
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The Nicholls
Fr. John definitely had a special place in my heart. He was my childhood priest in Katy since I was 3 years old, and he married my mom to my stepfather. I remember getting really upset and crying to my mom when I found out he was leaving our church. I have always thought of him, and when I moved back to Houston, we decided to join SVDP, and I didn't find out for a couple months that Fr. John was the same Fr. John from my childhood; my mom had to point it out to me. I was so excited to find him again. I will miss him tremendously, he was a great priest and a great man. He will always be remembered.
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Debbie Payne
There are special people who help us along the way in our life journey. They are truly gifts from God. Father John, thank you for being one of these special people and leading such an incredible parish! I have always enjoyed coming to St. Vincent De Paul when I am here in Houston. May God bless you and give comfort to your family, friends and parishioners. Thank you for making this church such a warm and welcoming place. We will miss you.
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Keith & Melanie Burrhus
We will never forget Father John praying over us after we were grieved to learn of a miscarriage. His comforting counsel was straight from the Holy Spirit.
My brother-in-law went through RCIA at St. Laurence, and during the Easter Vigil that year I will never forget Father John's words during that celebration as he wept, "this is our holiest hour."
We love you Father John. How blessed we are to have known you! Jesus we trust in you.
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Michael and Marla Siwierka
Father John is the primary reason why our Knights of Columbus #11343 was started at St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land. Sir Knight (District Deputy at the time) Jim Collins (St. Theresa's) and I met with him shortly after he was installed as Pastor. He enthusiastically facilitated the establishment of the new council and supported me becoming our Founding Grand Knight. He loved the fellowship and attended almost every meeting and function as our Chaplain, Brother and friend. He LOVED everything good, everything Holy, and was indeed a very holy man. He touched our lives so deeply. My girlfriend and later, wife, Marla was in RCIA at St. Laurence when he arrived. He married us before 300 people. We will never forget our first dance at the reception. Father John actually cut in. As I watched "our" first dance from the sidelines, I couldn't help but love him, and saw and felt how much he loved us and those around him. His mother was also an special "gift" to my family. I always felt his presense in our home too. Our first house was the former Church Rectory. Our beloved Pastor, friend and inspiration to my family is now so greatly missed. We will always love Father John, and will continue to pray for him, and seek his spiritual guidance in our lives.
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A Grateful Soul
Fr. John's great devotion to the Divine Mercy was part of the miracle that brought me back to the Church. He was kind enough to meet with me a few times after my return and each time I came away with a sense of peace. He knew how to find God in living and in dying. I am thankful that his suffering has ended and his eternal joy has begun.
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Linda Holzhauser
I have so many memories of Fr. John; my parents were parishoners when he was assigned to Epiphany; he did my nephews' first communions and my sister's wedding. Several years later when he was assigned to St. Laurence my parents were living in New Territory and attending Holy Rosary but decided to come to St. Laurence because of Fr. John. They would sit in the same pew every Saturday at the 6:00 mass; when my dad took ill and had to use an oxygen tank, Fr. John told him that the good Lord would understand if he didn't come to church, but of course being the strict Catholic that he was he and my mom would still attend mass. My dad passed away in January of 2000 and Fr. John did the funeral mass. I'm sure my parents will welcome him with open arms. Sleep in heavenly peace Fr. John!!
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Margarita Dufilho
I will always remember Fr. John by his positive attitude and his love for the Divine Mercy. Jesus, I trust in you! Fr. John has joined your Saints and Angels and may he send us his blessing! What a privilege to have met him!
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Millie Foye
Just as Fr. John shared his health and energy with us when he first came to St. Vincent's, so he shared his illness and dying with his parish. He said Mass or was on the altar until the end. His humility, his hope, his trust in God, his peace in the face of death and suffering - all of these qualities were gifts to his flock. I shall be forever grateful to God and to Fr. John for the gift of his living and the gift of his dying.
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Santiago Rios
I had the honor and privilege to attend to his mass, and listen to him. A fine, kind servant of God. God bless him.
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St. Laurence Parishoner
Fr. John taught me it's a father's right and privilege to bless his children. 10 yrs later I still bless my 3 boys each night at bed time, asking for God's blessing. May God bless you as well, Fr. John.
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The Cullen Family
We moved into the St. Laurence Parish 3 months after Fr. John became pastor. We soon recognized his gentle spirit and great faith. We would like to thank him for bringing three wonderful things into our lives at St. Laurence. The Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Daughters of America and Divine Mercy. Thank you for your wonderful service to Our Lord and Savior.
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The Ruiz Family
As a past member of St. Laurence Parish, and a charter member of the Knights of Columbus Council 11343, I can only state how blessed and thankful to God for such a great gift to all who were touched by Father John. His homilies came from the heart and were always inspirational. He truly was a Knight of Columbus in both thought, word and deed. Surely he is at rest with God and His angels and His saints. Vivat Jesus! Vincent Ruiz
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M. Edward Burdzinski
I have had the blessed honor of assisting Fr. John at weekend morning mass. Seeing him up close, you couldn't help noticing the holy peace that surrounded him during the mass. At the consecration, there was especially, he exhibited a renewed strength and devotion. We have all been blessed beyond measure due his answering God's call to his vocation.
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A Visitor
We were attending St. Vincent De Paul church for the last 4 years and Fr. John was the celebrant for the very first mass we attended there. Right from that day, we wished Fr. John were the celebrant of the mass every time we went there. Somehow, Fr. John was able to come deep to our minds and was successful in creating an invisible bridge between our minds and with God. We'll miss all that. Our prayers will be with you, Fr. John. RIP.
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Deacon Bob Dunham
Like Jimmy Holzhauser and others, my wife and I met John Weyer as a seminarian. Bishop Rizzotto seemed to welcome many seminarians to St. Francis de Sales. Fr. John has served faithfully at several parishes. When he was transferred to St. Laurence, I went to a 9:00 am Mass during his second week there. After the majority of people had greeted him - and departed - I asked if I could call and set up an appointment to visit with him - to discuss assisting him as a deacon. He replied, "No need to call. Come as soon as you can." We picked up where we left off several years before. One of the most profound attributes of Fr. John is his devotion to Sr. Faustina - and his pride in building the Divine Mercy Chapel there at St. Laurence. A noted author once said, "Grief is the price we pay for love." There will be a great deal of grief in our community due to Fr. John's call to his eternal reward. We know that he is in a better place. Its still hard to turn loose.
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Horacio and Mirta Fernandez
Blessed are the dead who die Trusting in Jesus the Lord ! May Fr. John rest in the peace of Christ ! We are going to miss his presence and his voice proclaiming the Word of God at Sunday's Mass. His warm handshake and his friendly smile also will be missed;but we will keep his memory in our heart forever.
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Kozuch Family
My family has known Fr John since he was a pastor at St. Laurence in Sugar Land. With his guidance, he and his team created a Youth Minstry that introduced my husband and I when we were just in high school. Years later, Fr John married my husband and I in Sugar Land in 2000. We last visited Fr. John at St. Vincent's in 2006 when friends of ours were married by him. With his help, he was able to guide my husband and I to build a strong marriage and strong family in the Catholic faith. He means so much to us, and we are so deeply saddened to hear of his passing. To all who have been touched by his faith, his guidance, and his love - we are so lucky to have had him in our lives, and am comforted that he is with our Lord. God Bless you! Walter & Deborah Kozuch
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Malgorzata Z. Dabrowska
I was a temporary parishoner of St. Vincent de Paul during three years of my work at Rice University as a Visiting Professor. I was always touched by Father John's homilies. I missed them when he started his chemotherapy. I wished he would win his battle with cancer. I am sorry to hear that he lost. The only consolation is that in all our battles God doesn't leave us.
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Pam White
Fr. John, I told you when you left St. Laurence that I was a better person for knowing you. You leave behind a legacy of love and kindness; and we are so grateful that you gave us Divine Mercy. May you rest now in the arms of the angels and God's sweet mercy. We will miss you.
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The Banks Family
Fr. John had just come to St. Vincent's and he was leading the children's Christmas Eve mass...it was his first. He asked the children to come up and join him around the altar as he sat. He wanted everyone to know that the children of the church meant so very much to the church and that the figures of the church were not so out of reach; they were right there for you to come up and sit with. At the time, my daughter Lily was learning how to interact with others at church. She was going through intensive home training to learn how to interact with others, you see Lily has autism and at the time was not very good at "behaving" in church like she should, or rather what others thought she should be doing when in church (sitting quietly and listening). This was one of the rare times we were inside the church proper....it was a children's mass, after all...the Cry Room was our usual routine. Fr. John asked all the children to come up to him and sit with him. Lily got up and went to join the throng of children heading towards him with her brother and sister. She started off sitting at the bottom step next to her sister. To this day we don't have a clue how but she mangaged to move herself through the mass of moving children and she ended up right next to Fr. John. Next thing we knew, she was sitting facing the congregation, snuggled up to Fr. John's left side...she started on the bottom right. Her face was so happy, she was glowing. She got to sit next to him as he opened a Christmas present and hold the wrapper. After that shared moment, Lily could not wait to go to church every Saturday evening. We never again had to sit in the Cry Room. I am not sure what magical moment occurred sitting next to Father, but Lily would only sit in the church proper where the big girls and boys sat with mommies and daddies. We still had to work on behaviors that were acceptable in church but she still glows when we attend Mass. She sings and interacts and enjoys the Mass more, I think, because she worked so hard to be part of the celebration...a celebration that began with Father inviting all the children to join him..... Originally submitted to Youth Ministry and respectfully submitted by the St. Vincent de Paul Administration with the permisson of Mrs. Banks.
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The Robeson Family
We are truly saddened to hear of Father John's passing. He did such a great job leading our church after Monsignor Jamail. He showed great courage and strength through his illness. I will always remember how beautifully decorated he would have our church at Christmas and Easter. God bless you Father John and your family.
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James Crowley
Father Weyer was my pastor at St. Laurence in Sugar Land. A truly fine man and servant of God. He will be missed greatly.
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Tatianna Robles
While I never personally met Father John, there was always a sense of peace and kindness around him. I've met very few people with that quality around him. May he rest in peace!
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The Monacelli Family
Father John had large shoes to fill upon Monsignor Jamail's passing and did a beautiful job with transitioning into our parish. We were very fortunate and blessed to have had Father John be part of our lives. He delivered a practical, easily understood uplifting message in very simple terms every Sunday for us to live better lives by. We will miss his presence, charming wit and smile.
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Fr. Jose Tharayil
I got the sad news of the demise of our dear Fr. John Weyer. Please accept my heartfelt condolence. May the merciful Lord grant him eternal rest in heaven, R.I.P. Fr. John was a holy and efficient Pastor. He was loved by all. He was so loving, kind, hospitable and generous to me. He was a man of deep faith and prayer. I could personally experience his fraternal love, care and concern shown to me. I felt at home with him at St. Vincent de Paul Church. His death is a great loss for us all. As we know God allows everything to happen for the good of all both living and dead, let us try to accept God's will. Let His will be done. I am sure Fr. John will continue to love and help us from heaven. Fr. John will be remembered not for the sadness of his suffering and death, but for the goodness of his life that gave joy to us all. Praying for the repose of the soul of our dear Fr. John and for the comfort of the sorrowing members of St. Vincent de Paul parish and of his family members. Yours sincerely in Our Lord, Fr. Jose Tharayil
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Eleanor J. Notz
I had the distinct privilege and honor of serving as St. Laurence Parish's Director of Religious Education during the time Fr. John was pastor. From the first day of his assignment he had a vision of what was best for the parish in helping it to reach its potential as a community of giving, trusting, loving and spirit filled people. He empowered the adults of the community to share their gifts and talents for the good of all. His very trusting nature was summed up in his favorite response, "Jesus, I trust in You." Fr. John led the parish well in a time of tremendous growth and change and had the ability to motivate and inspire others to come forward and lead. His absolute dedication to his calling, his willingness to share his spirituality and his very human side to me are signs of a truly great priest and human being. "The names of those who in their lives fought for life, Born of the sun, they traveled a short while toward the sun And left the vivid air signed with their honor." Servant Leadership, by Robert K. Greenleaf
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Edmond and Margaret Lee
Father John, we will miss a great man and friend. May you rest in peace! Thank you for everything you have brought to St. Vincent and St. Laurence!
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Peggy & Hugh Idstein
May you rest in the arms of our Father, at peace, and once again be with your beloved parents in His care. Thank you for all that you brought to St. Vincent de Paul. You opened the parish to all.
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Janie McNeillie
To the family of Fr. John, we want to offer our deepest sympathy. Fr. John was a wonderful, holy priest. The Holy Spirit was able to work through the church and bring us many special graces because he was willing to do the will of God. I am most grateful for him bringing the Divine Mercy Message; my family has experienced many blessings from this special devotion. Also for Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Holy Eucharist, that is so powerful and helps us to grow in holiness and in our relationship with Christ. We are so thankful for his spiritual and financial support for Richard in the seminary. Fr. John, you will be missed but we will see each other again. Your journey is over and you are Home! Praise be to God! Trusting in Jesus, Janie and Jim McNeillie
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Judith Pursch Burgess
Fr. John and I attended St. Peter the Apostle School in Houston. His mother Rita was truly a woman of God and spread Christ's message in all she did for my family and others. Fr. John and I were both members of Our Lady of LaSallette Sodality and I have a very vivid memory of his leading us in the recitation of the Holy Rosary. It was evident even those many years ago that he was a holy person, and this fact was borne out again and again over the years. I had the privilege of attending his ordination, his first Mass, and his 25th Anniversary as a priest. He was a sincere, devout follower of Christ and I hope he died near the Hour of Mercy. However, I am as sure a mortal can be that he is safely with the Trinity and the Blessed Mother he so dearly loved. We are blessed to have known him and in some ways feel like we walked with Christ.
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Kathy, Luke and Jenny Huebner
Father John had such a consoling spirit that reached out to the senior community at the nursing homes and anyone who had experienced a loss of family members. His compassion reminded his listeners that our loved ones are still close to us even on the other side. The children and I knew him at St. Laurence and more recently at St. Vincent de Paul. From preschoolers to young teens, Luke and Jenny have learned from his prayerful example since their father passed away eight years ago. I remember even when Father was not well and the air conditioning was off, he was leading Mass right after Hurricane Ike. Thank God for our priests who understand the sanctity of life and please pray for our country.
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The Morris Family
We were very fortunate to have Fr. John bless our marriage several years ago. We missed him a lot once we moved to Austin. We will miss his kindness and awesome presence. Peace be with you, Fr. John.
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Dorothy Jarone
You will be truly missed Fr.John. You had the laugh of a Angel, you loved your parish families, God Bless You Fr. John you will be always in my heart. Past Sectretary for St. Dominic Church
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Paulette Blackburn
Fr. John's love and spirit for the young people at St. Vincent's Life Teen mass convinced my son and I to be a part of this faith community. Fr. John's love for young people will always be appreciated and never forgotten. While my son spent many Sunday afternoons during his senior year in high school working in the front office at SVDP, he and Fr. John would talk at length about Darryl's many opportunities and future. Last month when Fr. John took his next to last trip to Iowa he offered to meet Darryl near the University of Oklahoma where he attends to hand off a large bin of Darryl's winter clothes as a favor to me. I really felt badly because the bin of clothing was pretty big. Fr. John said it was no problem as he would be driving his sister's Escalade. When the day came to load the SUV, the only thing in the rectory garage was Fr. John's little Toyota. I told Fr. John to forget it and Darryl would have to wait til he came home for Thanksgiving. We shoved the bin in the trunk and he whispered to me that taking the Escalade would give his sisters opportunity to pack too many clothes - we both had a real good laugh over that! What a laugh Fr. John had. I was so humbled by his kindness. When he got to Norman, Ok, he called and met Darryl and they exchanged the winter clothes and a hug and Fr. John blessed him and he continued on to his future resting place unaware that it was only 6 weeks away. Three days after Fr. John returned to Houston and moments before his last attempt to celebrate the 12:10 mass, I saw Fr. John - he told me that he enjoyed his short visit with my son and how good it was to see him. Fr. John embraced your treasures as his treasures and never hesitated his hand out to help up. Darryl and I will miss him forever.. Thank you Fr. John.
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Mike and Anna Davila
You touched our family dearly. We will always remember the beautiful baptism of our baby girl and the kind words you shared with our family. We thank you for bringing the LifeTeen program to SVDP and showing the light of Christ to the youth of our church. We will miss you.
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Fr. Romanus Muoneke
Fr. John Weyer was a great pastor and a friend to priests. We at St. Francis of Assisi Parish are sad to hear that he passed. He will be missed very much. Just as we have been praying for him during his sickness, we will continue to pray that he may rest in the peace of Christ. Our condolences to Fr. Weyer's family and to St. Vincent de Paul Parish.
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Gustavo Camacho
I will miss his love and passion for the Eucharistic celebration. His love for his parish and those around him was immeasurable. He gave so much of himself. I remember one life teen mass a couple of months ago, after the consecration he felt a sharp pain and for most people, we would have stopped what we were doing, but for him, more important than himself was the assurance that he had Christ to hand out. He did so with no mention of pain until he came walking in after the parishioners left and hunched over said, thank you Lord for getting me through this, sat down and waited for the pain to subside a bit and then went into the rectory. His every wish is for us to see that very sacrifice and devotion in the most sacred moment when we too are given the Body and Blood of our Savior, that we love one another and that we spread the Gospel of Christ Jesus. I really hoped and prayed that he would make it to see my ordination, and now I know that with him in the presence of Christ, praying for us all, called home as we all hope to be someday, he is where God needs him. I pray for your eternal rest father John, may you bask in the glory and peace of God the Father until we meet again.
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Beth Calderon
Father John was my pastor at St. Dominic's in Houston in 1991. He was one of the best ministers I have ever heard speak and my family continues to pray the Novena because of him. Although we are members of Second Baptist now, I am always reminded how an incrediable pastor can bring people to Christ.
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Mike and Ruby Norris
We are members of St. Laurence in Sugar Land. Father John was such a special man and we will always remember the good things he did for us as well as our parish. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
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The Layne family
Father John did many wonderful things for our parish, and we are thankful for his dedication and guidance he provided for the Church and school. His vision for the future of St. Vincent's will leave a lasting mark on Catholic education. He will be missed...
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A parish member of SVDP
We will miss his anecdotes of his family stories...they always conveyed a message of love and reconciliation. I think it was also Father John's way of connecting with all of us.
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Maria Luisa P. Clarin
My family & I are deeply saddened of Fr John's passing . He is now in a better place with no sufferings & pain but most of all , he is now with the Father Almighty & sharing in His eternal peace & glory.
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The Gabel Family
We know that Father John will forever be a guardian angel looking down upon us. May he rest in peace in the arms of the Heavenly Father. He will be greatly missed. With Love-Gerard, Tracey, Reagan, George, Caroline, Stephanie, Christopher, Catherine and Joseph
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The Kahrhoff Family
We will greatly miss Fr John. He was a wonderful priest and pastor here at SVDP. He gave so much to this parish. His great devotion to the Divine Mercy was a particular inspiration. Be at rest with the Lord and our Blessed Mother, dear pastor!
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Vicki Hollopeter
Words can not express the love and gratitude I have for Father John. He opened my eyes and my heart to God and the Catholic faith. During my walk through RCIA he was such a gift to my husband and I. During this time of conversion for me I learned so much from him that continued until today. I remember coming to him at mass to be blessed before I came into the church and he would pat me on the arm and say "soon Vicki soon". Those three words meant so much. He taught me to pray and to be able to say without hesitation "Jesus I Trust In You". I always got so much out of his homilies. Father John you were my beacon in the storm. My safe harbor. Now you are with Stacey in heaven and I have another guardian angel to guide my path. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. May all the angels in heaven serenade you with songs of joy. Your spirit will always be with me and may I never forget your words of wisdom that you shared with me in my times of pain. Until we meet again may all Gods angels and saints welcome you home. Like I said "it's ok now"...My Jesus I Trust In You..
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The Vaughans
We would like to thank Father for teaching us, "Jesus we trust in you."
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Laura-St. Laurence
Fr. John how we love you and know that the angels surrounded you as you entered the Kingdom and Our Heavenly Father's loving arms embraced and wrapped around you, saying Welcome, Welcome, you are home. We miss you Fr. as we pray the prayer that you taught my 8 year old son in second grade for his first communion, Jesus, We Trust In You.
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A former parishioner
Surely, the angels of Heaven were awaiting your arrival and our Heavenly Father has welcomed you lovingly and safely into His arms. May your family find comfort in your words, Jesus, I trust in You, in this time of need and may your soul rest in peace.
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Angela Kirke
Thank you for sharing your gifts of great wisdom and for sharing the Divine Mercy with our parish. You will be missed and our prayers will be with you and your family.
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Carol Vacek & family
Dearest Father John, I know you are with the angels and our heavenly Father. I learned a lot from you ... I will always appreciate your many kindnesses, especially the love you showed when helping me with my mother's memorial. Love, Carol Vacek
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Cathy Sharp
Fr. John had an open mind and open heart. I found him to be a very spiritual and devout man. Fr. John, may you rest in Peace.
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Chris Felix, member of Msgr. George A. Wilhelm Assembly
Fr. John Weyer served as Knights of Columbus chaplain for the Msgr. George A. Wilhelm Fourth Degree Assembly for many years. The Love of Christ that shown so brilliantly in Fr. John's message and example was like a lighthouse beacon keeping our membership true to course. Requiem in Pacem.
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Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church
The community of Christ the Redeemer Church joins me in expressing our great sympathy to the people of St. Vincent de Paul Church and Fr. John's family at this time of sorrow. Fr. John was a great priest of our archdiocese and a dear friend to me. In fact, I was an altar boy for him while growing up at St. Luke the Evangelist parish in southeast Houston. He was a great influence on me back then and remained a trusted mentor to me throughout the years. May God bless you at this difficult time and may God's perpetual light shine upon him. -- Fr. Sean Horrigan, pastor, Christ the Redeemer Church
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Coale
Fr. John was one of those rare priests with true comedic timing. His beautiful voice will be missed. He was a blessing to me with my fight against cancer. I feel so blessed to have known him. Thank you Father John for the many laughs, prayers, and lessons on how to truly enjoy life. My favorite picture was riding the camel this recent festival, I thought there is a man having fun. We love you. The Coales
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Erminia and Michael Kocian
A beautiful and holy man who will be missed more than he knows. Our family has loved him from the time we knew him at St. Lawrence in Sugarland, TX. He has been a big part of our earthly family then when we had to say goodbye to our father, and continuing at St. Vincent de Paul, in wedding preparation, mass, and enjoyed seeing him and talking with him. It's comforting to know he will be with our Father in Heaven. We'll be in communion with him as we share in Christ in the Eucharist. God bless your kind soul, Fr. John.
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Eugenia and Roy Riddle
Our hearts are heavy. However, we cannot be selfish anymore and must accept God's will. May Fr. John rest in peace. He has earned his wings and has become our new guardian angel. This tribute is sent with love and prayers.
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Jimmy Holzhauser
Father John will forever be in my Familys Heart. He was very Special to me. I met Father John when I was 14yrs old. He was my CCE teacher at St. Francis de Sales Church. We became very good friends through middle school and High school. He even invited me to his Ordination when he became a Priest. We have followed him to all the churches he has been assigned to. We have kept our Friendship alive throughout these years. He will be in our Hearts for ever.
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Jimmy Stewart
I am a son of Emmett & Gerrie Stewart who attend your church. My parents were blessed to have Father John in their lives and they truly loved the man. He touched their lives deeply. Our family was fortunate to have Father John at my father Emmett's funeral mass recently. Knowing that he did this during his own suffering is something that I can never thank him enough for. He was a truly great man! I know he is at peace now and having a good time with my Dad.
Jimmy Stewart
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Marta Irizarry (Camacho)
Father John was a blessing to our Church and to our lives. I will always remember him thru “JESUS I TRUST IN YOU”; this few words means so much to me because of him and I am sure to many of us and personally he really gave a very special meaning. Thru his homilies he taught us how to love and accept every one; “Oh, if I only knew his heart…". May he rest in peace; we will always love you and remember you Father John."
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Reverend Father Richard D. Breton, Jr.
In 2005 I came to St. Vincent de Paul Parish as a Seminarian from Connecticut. I was living at St. Vincent's during that time as I did my Hospital Chapliancy Training. For 1 year I lived and worked with Father John. During that time he became like a father to me. He watched over me and assisted me in my training as a future priest. In 2006 when I left Texas, to return to the Seminary in Connecticut, Father John expressed that I always had a home at St. Vincent's. After he was diagnosed with cancer, he and I had weekly conversations on the phone. When I was ordained a Transitional Deacon, I returned to be the Deacon at Mass with Father John. This past May I was ordained a priest and returned to St. Vincent de Paul Parish to celebrate a Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving, at which Father John concelebrated with me. Having Father John con-celebrate that Mass with me meant more than words can express. When I heard the news of Father John's death, I had just finished offering Holy Mass for his intentions. I am comforted to know that his passing coincided with the celebration of Mass. May the family, friends, and dear parishioners of Father John be assured of my prayers during this difficult time. Father John, May you Rest in the Peace of Christ!
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Rich and Monica Haaland
We are saddened to hear of Fr. John's passing as I remember him so well simply inspiring people to be holy and by being willing to minister to everyone. We and the rest of the Catholic Church will miss you dearly.
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St. Dominic Parish Community
Fr. John was well-loved in the community; he was God's gift to St. Dominic. He has served our parish community well. He was God's faithful servant to the end. May he rest in peace!
Rev. Roger Estorque & St. Dominic Catholic Community, 8215 Reservoir Avenue, Houston, TX 77049
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The Chris Bohlmann Family
Fr. John married our oldest daughter, renewed our wedding vows (our 25th wedding anniversary), celebrated the high school graduation mass of our middle daughter and gave our son his first communion at Epiphany of the Lord Church in Katy. He will be remembered for his smile and good works.
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The Garza Family
Father John will always have a place in the hearts of our family. It took my wife 14 years to convert to Catholicism because of her family. Through all that time, Father John was always there for her. He made time to talk to her when she needed it and was ever encouraging. Father John married us at St. Vincent de Paul after her conversion and we have many great memories of him. Never before had I met a man as selfless and giving as Father John Weyer. He gave me the inspiration to believe and trust in God once again. We will greatly miss him. He was a true reflection of what Christ intended his disciples to be. May the road rise up to meet you...and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand.
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The J.D. Tyler family
Father John will always be special to us. His care for the sick touched many people as it did our family when he was pastor at St. Laurence. Eternal rest grant unto him. Jesus, I trust in You! Our sympathy to his family.
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The Plant Family
Father John Weyer was always a Shepherd to our family and our parish at St. Laurence, and holds a special place in our hearts. By living his faith through the Gospel and being an example like the saints, as our pastor, he showed us how to be humble and to trust in Christ. He so loved the saints, and would share his knowledge through daily spiritual homilies. He sincerely was a holy, humble, & loving priest, and a spiritual mentor to our sons. Father John was a heavenly gift to us all as he truly represented Christ in the priesthood. Thank you God for sharing his life with us, and may God's Peace through the Holy Spirit surround his family and friends during this difficult time. Lord, eternal rest grant unto his soul. The sadness of death gives way to the bright promise of immortality. Lord, for your faithful people life is changed, not ended. When the body of our earthly dwelling lies in death, we gain an everlasting dwelling in heaven (Roman Missal). Love, The Plant Family.
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Thomas G. Donlin
I came across Fr. John when we moved over to St. Laurence in Sugar Land from the Heights in 1995. Our families go back to St. Peter the Apostle parish and Fr. John' mother, Rita and my mother, Mary were long time friends. I'm proud to call Fr. John a Brother Knight of Columbus and we was proud of the Knights and proud to be a Knight. As St. Paul said to Timothy I think can be said of Fr. John, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award me on that day". Eternal rest grant unto Fr. John oh Lord and may perpetual light shine upon him.
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Tom Egolf
A few years ago when I talked to Father John about getting support from St. Vincent's for mission work in Mexico and getting our parishioners involved in short term Mission trips, his answer was, "yes, go for it", He was a man of God who had a deep love and compassion for the poor and those in need.
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a friend
Fr. John knew that :
"Suffering is the great treasure on earth; it purifies the soul,in suffering we learn who is our true friend. (342)
Fr.John was a perfect example to us all during his suffering.
Jesus, i trust in you!"
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Garza
Me and my husband greatly missed Fr. John when he left St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land. We missed his homily and his wonderful delivery of God's words. We were saddened when we found out he got sick. And now that he's really gone, he will be missed even more. May his soul rest in peace.
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