Emotional mass held in honor of Moreno

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Catholics attended mass at St. Lawrence Church Sunday morning where parishioners hugged and cried together, remembering the life of Father Joe Moreno.

Many are still trying to come to grips over the death of Father Joseph Moreno that happened just one day ago.

It's believed the beloved priest took his own life inside the St. Lawrence rectory Saturday, October 13th.

Father Joe was described as a larger than life man who mirrored his philosophy of generosity and kindness after Father Baker.

Parishioner George Bailey says, "He was just a fun loving, kind man. He never took anything ahead of himself, everybody else was always ahead of him."

"I was horribly shocked and very saddened about what happened. It was said that he never said no to anyone no matter what circumstance they were in. I know he's helped me out a number of times. He was just a great human being and it's just such a tragedy what happened," says parishioner Michael Ellis.

The mass was especially difficult for Deacon Paul Weisenbuger who said Father Joe was like a son to him. The Deacon even broke down at one point during his homily.

Deacon Weisenbuger says, "He did so much for so many people and expressed his love and everybody loved him. What can one say?"

Father Joe and his work was well known throughout not only Buffalo but all of Western New York. Some who don't even belong to this parish came Sunday to pay their respect.

Deborah Finamore from Buffalo says, "He was just such a gentle soul. He seemed like he was such a shepherd for this parish and shepperd for many of us who are looking for that kind of leadership from the church. This is a tremendous loss not only for this parish but for this part of our city."