The parish of Manzanilla was thrown into mourning on August 4, with the sudden passing away of our dearly beloved parish priest, Fr Johnny Woods.

Fr Woods came to our parish on November 1, 1996 – his first Mass in the parish being the Mass of All Saints.

Fr Woods was a kingdom priest whose vision was to bring God's kingdom to everyone. He welcomed everyone to the House of God. He believed that God loved everybody. He would often comfort others who were in distress over some problems with the words, “Don't worry God loves you still.”

Fr Johnny Woods

He never condemned anyone but always insisted that were was “some good” in everybody.

Love and friendship meant a great deal to him and so he introduced us to the Better World programme with the hope of helping us to achieve good values.

This programme has brought tremendous benefits to our parish. Our people from the eight communities in our parish have become closer together, caring for each other and sharing each other's joys and sorrows.

Fr Woods loved nature and would often take long walks along the Manzanilla beach, taking up “odd” things, which he brought back to the presbytery. He was also very fond of flowers and plants and made sure that there were lots of them in and around the presbytery and church. He always requested poinsettias at Christmas time.

Fr Woods had a special place in his heart for the sick and needy. He visited every sick person in the parish and anyone who sought his assistance was always attended to willingly. Everyone felt comfortable in his presence.

Fr Woods was great for making friends and keeping friends. He would often say, “I have to visit an ‘old' friend” (“old” meaning from his previous parish). Fr Woods loved everybody and was loved in return by very many people.

We have truly lost a good shepherd, a caring father and a faithful friend. On one occasion when he gave his homily at Mass, Fr Woods told us that after we have left this world, people will remember us for the good values we have taught them.

Surely, Fr Woods, we will remember you for those values you have imparted to us. We will remember you for your love, friendliness, kindness, simplicity and humility.

We thank God for giving us the opportunity of knowing you and spending those nine challenging but meaningful years with you. We love you and will miss you.

May God grant you peace, light, joy and happiness in His heavenly kingdom.