In Memory of John Parres

BMP Founders: Sr. Paulette Weindel, Mama Georgette, John Parres, and Brookie Moore

It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of John Parres, founder, legal counselor, and cherished friend of Burundi Miracle Project (BMP). John spent countless hours of his retirement years advocating for Mama Georgette and BMP. He enjoyed telling everyone he knew about the extraordinary work being done by her in the tiny, sub-Saharan country of Burundi. In fact, he re-titled his 90th birthday to “A Celebration of Lives” where he recognized many friends who had inspired him, but most of all, he wanted to celebrate Mama Georgette, who, in his mind, surpassed them all.

When Mama Georgette received the news that her dear friend and advocate, John Parres, departed this life, she broke down.Through her tears the proclaimed, “May the Lord give us a heart like John’s, who loves the poor, the lost, the widow, the orphan. He is a model of kindness and of serving others; he sees unseen people, and he loves them well. I will never meet another man like him.”

Mama Georgette and the BMP Team find comfort in commending John’s soul to the Lord. “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.  For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

In lieu of flowers, John requested that contributions be made to Burundi Miracle Project. Donations can be made online at burundimiracleproject.org or mail checks to Burundi Miracle Project, 101 W. Argonne Dr., #208, Kirkwood, MO, 63122. Please make checks payable to Burundi Miracle Project.