Rossana Mattei (secretary)

Dear Padre Eric, your sudden passing has left me speechless. I wasn't ready... no one ever is. We said goodbye until the end of summer, waiting to continue our work, but that wasn't meant to be. Your presence at SJES was very important to me because you taught me many valuable lessons, especially how to listen. Not just hearing... but truly listening. Yes! Because you listened to my unspoken words, my emotions, and my plans. I will no longer be able to thank you personally, but I sincerely hope that wherever you are, you can find peace. You were... you are a good person with a good heart. I pray to our Father to accompany you and welcome you with all the love possible. Be our angel and stay close to us, guiding us. Have a good journey, Father Eric. You will always remain in our hearts.

Daniela Alba (advocacy coordinator)

In the brief time we spent together, I learned that one of the greatest gifts in life is sharing small moments of great value with gratitude. Conversations that may not seem significant at the time but become the most meaningful later. I cherish our last conversation the most, and I am grateful that, indeed, when your time came, as you said, “I went home peacefully, with God’s mercy.” I believe that’s how you lived much of your mission — peacefully in God’s mercy. Thank you for your service, companionship, and care — you will be missed dearly, Fr. Eric.

Maria Pia Pirelli (former advocacy and networking coordinator)

Fr. Eric was my companion at SJES in Rome for two years. His missionary work was always closely tied to education; it wasn't until later in his life, first with JRS and then with us at SJES, that he utilized his talents in the social apostolate. I remember many conversations and hours working together. His calm demeanor, analytical skills, and precise, methodical work stand out. I pray God keeps him in His care and comforts his loved ones in the Philippines and around the world.

Benedict Reilly (former intern from Yale University)

I spent the past summer sharing an office with Fr. Eric and working very closely with him — he was a great mentor and friend. He cared deeply about others, especially his family. His commitment to growing with honesty in spiritual life inspires me greatly. I will cherish our midday coffee and cookie breaks, our friendship, and everything I learned from him, forever. God bless.

Giorgia Lucchi (former advocacy and network assistant)

I recall a moment of reflection at the annual meeting, when I was asked, "What are you most afraid of and what gives you hope?" Father Erich answered that what he feared most was not being sufficiently vigilant and willing to listen to the voice of the Lord, and what gave him strength was the closeness of God. Well, I am sure that the Lord, in the final moment of his earthly life, found a faithful, vigilant, and listening servant. Thank you, Father Erich, for these months of working together; they have been precious.

Milton Mervin Raj, S.J. (Regent)

Fr. Eric was not just a companion but a true friend. During the year we traveled together, I sensed in him the youthful spirit of a Jesuit scholastic—always full of energy, encouragement, and quiet kindness in the small things. If someone had asked me before, “What would a saint be like?” I wouldn’t have known what to say. But now I can say: they are the ones who, in simple ways, bring light into our darkness. I was on retreat when Fr. Eric passed away. Strangely, what I felt most was peace because I knew he had gone to the place he had been longing for. After the funeral, I returned to Borgia’s chapel where he had been laid. Standing there, I felt a depth of peace I had never known before. Deep inside, I believe he has found it too.

Boris François Foka, S.J. (former Regent)

During my two years of regency at SJES, I had the privilege of working with Fr. Eric. As a young Jesuit, I was deeply inspired by his genuine witness to our shared identity. His prayer motivated me, and his work demonstrated humility, simplicity, and full dedication to the mission. He showed great care for the poor, embracing apostolic service with conviction, while proudly expressing his cultural roots with grace and integrity.

Roberto Jaramillo, S.J. (Director SJES)

Eric was a faithful, profound, and always available servant—an example of the Gospel of Jesus. He was one of the finest collaborators I have ever worked with. He always worked carefully to understand my thoughts and intentions, helping me shape correspondence, publications, and participation in meetings. He offered his suggestions with tact and respect, never discouraged by my limitations and always faithful to the instructions given. He is one of the finest collaborators I have ever had the pleasure of working with.

We are all saddened by his sudden departure. Let us accompany him with our prayers and grateful memories, united with Jesus Christ, our elder brother who died and rose again. He showed us the way to the house of our God, Father and Mother, where we will all be united in true Love forever.