The Reverend Peter J. Gomes

I learned today of the passing of the Reverend Peter J. Gomes at the age of 68.

I sang in the University Choir and consider Peter Gomes to be a major part of my Harvard experience.  Before I started my freshman year, my brother told me that one thing I must do while there is attend a sermon by the Reverend Gomes.  Well, I had the pleasure of hearing his sermons every Sunday and of getting to know him personally through seminars, personal meetings and his afternoon gatherings to enjoy sherry, conversation and companionship.

I last saw him when he spoke about his newest book a few years ago.  Around that time he also appeared on The Colbert Report and, as you might expect, held his own quite well!  I am deeply, deeply saddened.  I can hear his voice booming in my head (“Karen, it’s so gooood to see you.”) and will never forget it or him.