If you were in the same room as Msgr Jacques Suaudeau, you will probably not notice him. Despite his vast intellect Fr Jacques had a very humble and unassuming demeanour. He is not the type who wins argument by shouting down or ridiculing his opponent but rather by using his wit and humour.

He was always willing to sacrifice his precious time in carrying out his duties as an ecclesiastical advisor to FIAMC. Msgr Suaudeau was a great friend of our federation and we owe him a great debt. It therefore not a surprise when we had to re-elect an  EA there was only one name. What impressed me most about this great defender of the faith was his holiness.

When he last wrote to me about a year ago, he was lamenting about the number of people who died from COVID in France but the thing that pained him the most was that he could not celebrate mass in public. Ge could have a lucrative career as a doctor but he eschewed the physical things in life to answer God’s calling. I can just hear God welcoming His faithful servant into his presence.

I will not pray for him but I will pray to him that he will inspire more young doctors to follow his calling. FIAMC will not be the same without his physical presence. Like the lyrics of the beautiful song, “Ït’s not Goodbye” by Laura Pausini,, Adieu Fr Jacques Suaudeau until we meet again.

Dr. John Lee

Past President FIAMC