On September 24th, the Saint Peter’s College community gathered behind the King-Kairos Social Justice House for the blessing and dedication of a new labyrinth and garden in honor of Detective Marc DiNardo and Father Coman Brady. Detective DiNardo passed away on July 21, 2009 and Fr. Brady passed on away on July 22, 2009. Both individuals held special places in the hearts of the Saint Peter’s College community. This garden was developed to honor them and their service to the community.
Detective DiNardo, Saint Peter’s College alumnus and member of the Jersey City Police Department (JCPD), was fatally wounded in the line of duty. He graduated from Saint Peter’s in 1996 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social science, and the College has a strong relationship with the DiNardo family.
Fr. Brady was an Irish priest, who served as a pastor at Saint Vincent Ferrar Church in Brooklyn since 1986. He dedicated his life to serving the poor. In June, he was diagnosed with cancer. He suffered a fatal heart attack shortly thereafter. Fr. Brady worked diligently with the social justice program at Saint Peter’s College.
Before and after the blessing by Michael Braden, S.J., guests enjoyed poetry readings, food, and music in the autumn sunshine. Speakers included Dr. Anna Brown, Dr. Rachel Wifall, Mark Graceffo, librarian at Saint Peter’s, students, and others. At the event, members of the community were invited to visit the house frequently and enjoy the space at any time.