On Wednesday, July 31, 2024 Acting Latin Patriarchal Vicar for Jordan Fr. Dr. Jihad Shweihat, presided at the requiem Mass held by De La Salle College in Amman for the repose of the soul of Br. Rafael Gonzalez, the former director of the Freres schools in the Holy Land.

The requiem Mass was concelebrated by a number of priests in the presence the school’s current and former members of the teaching and administrative staff, as well as a large number of believers.

At the outset of the Mass, Director General of the school in Amman Brother Fadi gave a brief overview of the life of the late Rafael, who came to the Holy Land 41 years ago, and spent 71 years in the Levant, namely in Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine.

He said, "You were a symbol of loyalty and dedication in serving others, whether through your work or your daily dealings with people. You were always an inspiration to us, with your kindness and purity of heart, and a model to be emulated in faith and good deeds. We will never forget your laughter that reflects purity, your words abounding with wisdom, and your outstretched hand to every needy person. You were caring for the needs of people, and always ready to serve others, especially the needy, while not seeking praise as you were rather a hard worker, gentle, silent, humble of heart and unconcerned by the world, close to God and close to the world. We will miss your look which was full of compassion and humanity, filled with the presence of the Lord Who shone His light on your peaceful and reassuring face.”

Later, Fr. Shweihat delivered the homily, focusing on the presence of Br. Raphael in public life in Jordan.

Then, eulogies were delivered praising the virtues of Br. Raphael Gonzales and his life which was full of benevolence, and his dedication to serving schools, the Church and society for 71 years. On the other hand, Fr. Dr. Rif’at Bader said in his eulogy that the deceased was considered one of the prominent figures in the Holy Land. He, furthermore, addressed his unique personality in work, assiduity and perseverance in participating in all occasions especially in seriousness at work.

After the requiem Mass, Director of the school Dr. Ra’eda Al-Qassar, delivered an address at the school theater in which she said: How can we imagine the school without the presence and follow-up of Br. Rafael?