Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13).
The people of Northeast Ohio come together in mourning over the loss of a courageous member of law enforcement who gave his life for our community this past Saturday in the line of duty. City of Euclid Police Officer Jacob Derbin, who served for just under a year, was already a beloved member of the safety forces community. Officer Derbin made the ultimate sacrifice in faithfully carrying out his duty to protect and defend the citizens he served. The tragic loss of such a young, dedicated officer reminds us of the great risks taken and the dangers encountered by the brave men and women serving in our safety forces.
Together we pray for Officer Derbin, his family, friends and colleagues, along with all our safety forces who routinely go into harm’s way to keep us safe. May our example of prayer and solidarity bring some small measure of solace and strength to his family members and to all who grieve him. And may our loving, compassionate God bring consolation and healing to our community in the wake of this heart-rending loss. May Officer Jacob Derbin rest in God’s peace.
Please note: Father Doug Brown, pastor of Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Cleveland and the Cleveland Police Department chaplain, will celebrate Officer Derbin's funeral Mass at 11 a.m. May 18 in St. Columbkille Church, Parma. Click here for a link to the livestreamed liturgy. The stream will begin about 10:30 a.m.
Concelebrating will be Father Matt Jordan, pastor of St. Michael Parish in Independence, Father Anthony Suso, St. Columbkille pastor, and Father Michael Petkosek, Parochial Vicar, St. Albert the Great Parish in North Royalton.