Following the news of the tragic death of Bishop David O’Connell last Saturday, Bishop Fintan Gavin of Cork and Ross called for prayers the late bishop.
Bishop Gavin said, “The news of the tragic death of Bishop David O’Connell in Los Angeles has sent shockwaves across his native Diocese of Cork and Ross. On behalf of the people, priests and religious of the Diocese of Cork and Ross, and on my own behalf, I wish to express my sympathies and prayerful support to the O’Connell Family here in Cork, to Archbishop José H. Gomes and the people, priests and religious of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.”
The Bishop Cork and Ross continued, “Since his ordination in 1979 Bishop David has served as a priest in L.A. but has always maintained his connection with family and friends in Cork where has been a regular visitor. We pray that the Lord will console Bishop David’s many friends in Cork and throughout Ireland. We will pray for Bishop David at Mass throughout the Diocese of Cork and Ross in the coming days asking the Lord to comfort his family, his colleagues and all the bereaved.”
Concluding his statement, Bishop Gavin said, “Bishop Dave was a great friend to and supporter of the Diocesan Mission to South America. He personally ensured that our mission was included in the Annual Mission Appeal within the Archdiocese of Los Angeles which helped to support our mission projects in Peru. Many of the priests who served on our mission have very fond memories of those visits to Los Angeles and are deeply saddened by Dave’s sudden passing. Bishop David worked tirelessly for peace and harmony in communities; may he now rest in the peace of the Lord.”
ENDS
