Prot. No. 224-02
March 5,2018
With deep sorrow I received the news of the death of Bishop Tomas Aguon Camacho, my predecessor, after a long bout of illness. At the age of 84, he returned to the Lord whom he had served so well throughout his years as our bishop in the Northern Marianas. He has left us, but he will always be remembered for his warm smile and his dedicated service to our church and to the whole of the CNMI.
Bishop Tomas was ordained the first bishop of the Northern Marianas Island on January 13, 1985 and served for more than 25 years until his retirement in April 2010. Since then he lived quietly in his residence at KannatTabla, welcoming visitors with his customary graciousness and continuing his service to the diocese he had governed so long through his constant prayer. It is easy for us to imagine that the long illness he patiently bore was another part of the lifelong offering he made for the people he loved and so faithfully served.
With my brother priests, and the family of the late Bishop Tomas, I humbly ask for your prayers for the eternal repose of his soul and for the comfort of his family. Beginning tonight at 6 PM, mass will be celebrated for Bishop Tomas at Mt. Carmel Cathedral Mass, followed by rosary, will continue each evening until next Monday. The funeral mass is scheduled for Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at 11 AM at Mt. Carmel Cathedral.
Sincerely in Christ,
+ Most Reverend Ryan P. Jimenez, D.D.
Bishop of Chalan Kanoa
