Prayer Service in Memory of Eric Bigone

In Memory of Eric Bigone

Prepared by the Restorative Justice Ministry, with Reflections from Family members, Friends and Community Members.

May 26, 2026 • 46th Ave & Ulloa Street, San Francisco

Restorative Justice Ministry 

Archdiocese of San Francisco Celebrant: Rev. Daniel Nacimento

On Tuesday, May 26, 2026, the Restorative Justice Ministry of the Archdiocese of San Francisco gathered at the corner of 46th Avenue and Ulloa Street to honor the life of Eric Bigone, who recently lost his life to violence. Family members, neighbors, and community supporters joined together in prayer, accompanied by the ministry’s daily Rosary Rally prayer line.

Julio Escobar, Coordinator of the Restorative Justice Ministry, opened the service by expressing condolences to Eric’s family and explaining the purpose of these street‑corner gatherings: to reclaim places of violence as places of prayer, dignity, and healing. “We gather where life was taken to honor the person, to support the family, and to pray for peace in our community.”

 
Eric Bigone Memorial Blessing

Photo by Julio Escobar

Eric Bigone Memorial Mother

Photo by Julio Escobar

A Mother’s Tribute

Eric’s mother offered a deeply moving reflection on her son’s life, generosity, and spirit. Her words became the emotional center of the gathering:

“He was such a giving person. Even when I was sick, he came to my house every single weekend — sometimes spending the night just to make sure I was okay. He was full of love, grace, generosity, and fun. He was a wonderful father and a wonderful grandfather. He loved his family deeply, and they loved him. He was spiritual, and we shared that gift. I know he is in a better place.”

Her tribute honored Eric not only as a victim of violence, but as a man who lived with heart, humor, and devotion to others.

About the Prayer Service

Rev. Daniel Nacimento led the liturgy, offering prayers for Eric’s eternal rest and for comfort for his family. Scripture from Psalm 34 reminded those gathered that “the Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” The ground where Eric fell was blessed, symbolically transforming the space from a site of violence into a place of hope and remembrance.

Prayers were offered for:

  • Eric’s eternal rest

  • His family and loved ones

  • Healing in the neighborhood

  • An end to gun violence

  • Conversion of hearts

  • First responders and medical teams

  • All victims of violence in San Francisco

 

Community Reflections

Friends and community members shared memories of Eric’s commitment to helping young people and his desire to lift others up.

“If something was bothering you, Eric would say: help someone else. That was who he was.”

These reflections painted a portrait of a man who gave generously of himself and who believed in the power of service.

Closing Blessing

Rev. Nacimento concluded with a blessing over the family and the neighborhood, praying that God’s peace take root where violence has wounded the community. The group then prayed the Prayer of St. Francis, asking to become instruments of peace. Before departing, attendees gathered for a group photo to be shared with the family — a sign of unity and remembrance.

About the Restorative Justice Ministry

The Restorative Justice Ministry conducts prayer services throughout the year at or near locations where individuals have lost their lives to violence within Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo counties. Incidents from neighboring counties are also acknowledged in prayer.

We humbly ask you to keep in your prayers all who have lost their lives to violence in 2026, along with their families, loved ones, and the law enforcement personnel involved.