FATHER PAUL KERNS

SACO – The Rev. Paul Kerns, 62, passed away Saturday evening, June 23, 2007, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born April 4, 1945, in Biddeford, a son of Herbert and Natalie Bedard. Paul attended grammar school at Notre Dame de Lourdes School, Saco. He graduated from St. Louis High School, Class of 1963. Paul attended college at Our Lady of Lourdes Seminary, Cassadaga, N.Y., and graduated with a degree in philosophy and theology from St. Mary’s Seminary, Baltimore. Father Paul was ordained a priest June 5, 1971, at Most Holy Trinity Church, Saco, by Bishop Peter L. Gerety. Father Kerns served many parishes in his 36 years in the priesthood. From 1971 to 1977, he was assigned to St. Patrick’s Parish, Portland; University of Maine – Presque Isle Campus Parish; St. Joseph’s Parish, Portland and St. Mary’s Parish, Bangor. In the summer of 1980, he was Chaplain of the Diocesan Camping Program. In 1980, he was granted a leave of absence to pursue his love for studies. In 1991, he received a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University, to further enhance his ministry. In 1993, he was parochial vicar of Sacred Heart and St. Dominic’s, Portland. He was pastor of St. Mary’s, Augusta; St. Ann, Indian Island and St. Ann, Bradley. In 2006, Father Paul was the administrator of St. Agnes, Pittsfield. Father Paul was known for his warm personality. His ready smile made him approachable and understanding throughout his ministry. He will be fondly remembered by his former parish-ioners and many friends whose lives he touched. He is survived by his brother, Bruce Kerns and his wife, Jane, of Saco; his uncles, Father Paul Bedard and Robert Bedard; and many cousins. A special thank you to Roland and Cathy Fournier, Pam Pelletier, Kevin Parker, Father George Hickey, Father Joseph Manship, Father Norm Carpentier and many others for all their care and support. The Rite of Reception will be 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 26, at Most Holy Trinity Church with visitation until 5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Most Holy Trinity Church. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated noon Wednesday at Most Holy Trinity Church with the Most Rev. Richard Malone, principal celebrant. Burial will be at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco. Arrangements are by Cote Funeral Home, Saco. The family would like to thank his friends who were there for him and his family. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donations to the American Cancer Society.