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On Wednesday, March 21, the Saint Leo community gathered together to remember one of its beloved students, Kale Pinder. Pinder was a junior journalism major; he was involved in the Caribbean Students Association and was loved by many in the Saint Leo Community.
A resident of the Bahamas, Pinder lived with his parents and two younger sisters. He was a very avid athlete back at home, playing on basketball teams and flag football. Pinder was a leader and planned to coach a team in the Abaco Youth Football Association. Those close to him said that Pinder was very loving and friendly to all he met. He had a strong faith in Jesus Christ and spread love and goodness wherever he went.
The service took place in the Saint Jude Chapel. At the start of the Vigil service, Father Kyle Smith led guests in prayer, followed by the song “I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin. Similar to a Mass, the service consisted of the singing of one of the Psalms, Psalm 27 to be exact, and a reading from the Gospel.
After reading through the scripture, Father Kyle said a few words to honor Pinder and offer hope in this sad time. Then, some of Pinder’s close friends were able to share their stories, memories and what they loved most about their friend and classmate. The service continued with the attendees saying The Lord’s Prayer together.
The service continued, and together, everyone said The Lord’s Prayer.
The Vigil came to an end, and everyone began to make their way out of the chapel. Pinder’s many friends still hold his memory in their hearts and will have them always.
“I’m going to remember him by always being positive, always making sure everybody I know is happy and that we keep him alive in everything we do,” said one of Kale’s previous roommates, Maurqise Mcgill. Kale will continue to live on through his friends and all of the people and the lives he has impacted.
Going forward may not be easy, but taking time to grieve is okay.
“Keep talking to each other,” University Chaplain, Father Kyle, advised to those who are hurting. Talking to each other about the good memories and the hurt that is felt is so important, in knowing that you are not going through this alone. It is not bad to grieve or to feel sadness, and there is not an expiration date on feeling that sadness.
Counseling and University Ministry are two resources on campus willing to talk to anyone who needs it in this difficult time.
