When I heard that Msgr. Tom Tewes had passed away, my thoughts went immediately to a sunny day in the Baltimore Basilica six years ago. He was there to baptize my niece—my goddaughter.
That morning, my father had offered to pay our boys to take photos of the baptism. It was mostly an endeavor to keep them entertained and engaged. But what it turned out to be was a way to capture a beautiful perspective on the day.
My then-6-year-old son took his role seriously, walking through the church and taking photos of people and statues and windows. Some of his photos were blurry, and a few were hard to decipher.
But the photos of the people present were marvelous. People smile in one way when a grown-up asks them to pose for a photo. But that day when our active little boy approached people to ask for their picture, they smiled authentic, happy smiles.
It’s one of the rules of life: You can’t not smile for a child with a camera, especially when he’s wearing a blazer and tie.
I didn’t know Msgr. Tewes at the time, and in the excitement of the baptism, I had hardly had a chance to say hello. I certainly hadn’t introduced him to my children. But I glanced over, I saw that my little boy had asked if he could take the priest’s photo. Then he turned the camera to show Msgr. Tewes the picture.
I couldn’t help smiling. I loved that my son immediately picked up on how friendly Msgr. Tewes was. He was immediately comfortable talking with him—and even asking for a photo.
And no wonder. Msgr. Tewes was such a kind man who took an interest in those around him. He was gentle and peaceful and warm, a person who was easy to talk with, someone who was ready to listen. I wish I had known him better. I met him only twice—for the baptisms of my niece and then my twin nephews—but I was struck by his presence.
And I’m so grateful to have the photo our son captured of this wonderful priest’s warm smile. Rest in peace, Msgr. Tewes.
You can read more about Msgr. Tewes in this obituary.
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