My wife Carol claims she’s only seen me cry twice. Years ago, the family had a good laugh when I was prescribed medication before Lasik surgery because I didn’t have enough “tears” to handle the procedure. Even in the face of emotionally challenging moments, including the loss of loved ones, my stoic, Germanic nature urges me to hold it together.

This past weekend, Carol and I revisited what she calls the “first crime scene” in Cooperstown, NY. I made my first pilgrimage to the Baseball Hall of Fame several years ago. The tour starts with a welcoming video in a darkened theater. When the lights came back on, Carol was shocked to find me sobbing. Watching familiar film clips and interviews with baseball stars I idolized in my youth stirred joyful memories deep within me. My unexpected emotional response surprised not only Carol but me, too. I had violated the golden rule: “There’s no crying in baseball!”

The second time I broke the no-cry rule involved the granddaughter of someone I consider to have the most extraordinary resolve of anyone I’ve ever met: Dan Nigro. If anyone should have the right to cry, it’s Dan. Yet, I’ve seen him hold it together to give strength to others facing grief and tragedy. On September 11, 2001, Dan and his long-time friend, FDNY Chief Peter Ganci, answered the call together that morning. When the World Trade Center Towers collapsed on 9/11, Ganci lost his life. Dan—then second-in-command—was immediately thrust into leading the rescue and recovery mission. There was no time for tears.

Dan retired as Chief of the Department in 2002 to soon take on a new role filled with joy: full-time grandfather to his granddaughter Sara, born September 12 – three years and a day after 9/11. He always reminded me how joy follows darkness. We, Christian folk, call that the gift of death and resurrection.

Although he continues to dote on Sara, Dan was called back into service as New York City’s 33rd Fire Commissioner, serving one of the longest tenures in history. He walked alongside countless families mourning firefighters lost on 9/11 and others suffering from post-9/11 illnesses. As his pastor, I was continually amazed by his compassionate leadership.

So, what does Dan Nigro have to do with my second round of tears? His granddaughter, Sara, the one who brings him so much joy, made me cry unexpectedly. As God was calling me to minister elsewhere, I knew I would soon announce the end of my pastorate. It suddenly hit me while administering Holy Communion to Sara: I would no longer be her pastor. And, strangely, I realized I wouldn’t officiate at her wedding someday—a thought I had never considered before. Carol saw me wiping away a tear before anyone else noticed, but she witnessed it! Later, I explained what had triggered that moment.

Now, whenever something emotional happens, Carol is quick to tell people I only cry over baseball and Sara’s future wedding!

We never know what may spark an unexpected emotional response. Many have shared that familiar hymns, receiving Holy Communion, or being anointed at a healing service can trigger profound spiritual experiences. This Sunday, September 15, at 9:30 AM, as part of our worship service, Gladys and Tony Rodriguez will renew their wedding vows as they celebrate 60 years of marriage. Join us—you might experience a spiritual awakening or, perhaps, even catch a tear in my eye!

And, happy 20th birthday, Sara!

Blessings,

Pastor Marc