Marine Cpl. Roland Scarinci recently visited Saint Peter Parish in Merchantville not only to entertain the senior ministry with his lifelong harmonica skills, but to celebrate his 99th birthday.
“I’m so honored to be invited here. I love every one of you,” Scarinci gushed before pulling out his harmonica to play classics such as “God Bless America,” “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” and “New York, New York.”
In addition to music, Scarinci captivated about 40 senior citizens gathered in Pastors Hall for the parish’s monthly Senior Ministry Program with stories from his past and present. They included tales of his Philadelphia upbringing; World War II service in the South Pacific; the good vibes he still tries to bring to his hometown, and his courtship and marriage to his beloved wife, Gloria.
“She was the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen,” he said of his wife, who passed away Feb. 1, a day after the two celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary.
After the singing of “Happy Birthday” and cutting of cake, Scarinci – who was accompanied by his daughter Denise – shared how he continues to spend most of his days at a local coffee shop, paying for the meals of others and sharing in conversation. This dialogue and relationship-building among others, no matter their backgrounds, is sorely needed today, he says.
“I want to make [communities] a little greater, more respectful, and bring back some love and positivity,” he explains, adding that it is “being positive and loving everyone” that has kept him vibrant, active and young at heart in a seasoned life.
Bobbie Bradley, director of Saint Peter’s Senior Ministry, the first senior ministry in the Diocese of Camden, praised Scarinci’s powerful presence and joy-filled spirit. “He’s an incredible human being who fought for our country with valor and strength.”
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