FRESNO (KMJ) — The founder of Fresno’s Poverello House has now been laid to rest.
Inside Holy Spirit Catholic Church Wednesday morning, Mike “Papa Mike” McGarvin was described as a “reflection of the scriptures” by Monsignor Patrick McCormick.
“From a troubled life God brings a saint forward. From a troubled life God brings a living viable Christian forward. From a troubled life God brings to a community an example of what it means to be Christian.”
The story of how Mike McGarvin came to start Poverello House was revealed to those in attendance as following the influence of the Franciscan order of friars.
“It was Father Simon who began that process at the Poverello coffee house in San Francisco. It was there that Michael began to see the skills of this Franciscan and took them in, and learned himself what it really meant to be a person reaching out to those in need.”
Monsignor McCormick highlighted how Papa Mike’s humility encouraged those most in need to reach out.
“Every single one of us has something that we personally can do to bring about this assistance to our community. Mike would be that example.”
Near the end of the service, his daughter Clare McGarvin spoke to the congregation.
“When I was growing up, I’d come home sometimes frustrated with someone for one reason or another. I’d talk to Dad complaining about what they did, and he would always listen to my story and no matter what it was he would always say ‘well, we’re all brothers and sisters in this world’ and I would think he just doesn’t get it.
“But the truth is I didn’t get it. His advice is gleaned directly from his Christian and Franciscan convictions. Dad simply was telling me a truth that he had discovered and that he had lived out every day.”
She described the 73 year old as more than an exception, but an example to be followed.
“He was an example of what any of us could be if we started to see life the way he saw it.”
Mike “Papa Mike” McGarvin started the Downtown Fresno shelter in 1974, serving peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to those most in need. The same meal was offered at the gathering immediately afterwards, to honor Poverello House’s beginning.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to Poverello House or by visiting poverellohouse.org (click for link).
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
