SACRED HEART PARISH AND ITS FIRST RESIDENT PRIEST .
.
~(n
1879 the Reverend Thomas Davis moved from Stoco (Sugar Island) to Madoc. ,JJ Father Davis and many of his curates offered semi-weekly Masses at Madoc and its mission churches of Marmora, Maynooth, Queensboro, Tweed, Stoco, and Bancroft. In 1884 Tweed and its mission church in Stoco were put under the pastoral care of the Reverend LP. Fleming. In 1882 the total population of Marmora and Lake Township was 2,084. It consisted of 1,079 males and 1,005 females. There were 621 married, 1,389 unmarried, and 74 widowed. Of this total there were 802 Canada Methodists, 638 Catholics, 442 Church of England, 76 Presbyterians, 42 Reformed, 40 Episcopal Methodists, 23 Baptists, 7 Disciples, 5 Free Wills, 4 Bible Christians, 1 Universalist, and 4 with no religion. The ethnic origins of this population were predominantly from the British Isles and entirely European: 1,070 Irish, 381 English, 328 German, 142 Scots, 136 French, 17 Welsh, and 10 Dutch. On Monday, October 22nd, ] 894, His Grace lames Vincent Cleary (1828-1898) and Monsignor Davis, pastor of Madoc, drove from Madoc to Marmora to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation to 29 boys and 38 girls. After the ceremony, the local parishioners presented the Archbishop of Kingston with a petition signed by 58 heads of families, asking him for a resident priest here in Marmora. He thanked the people for the kind welcome extended to him and told them that he had himself thought over the matter and had decided to send one in the near future, but since they had already taken steps in the same matter, he would grant their present request immediately. The Reverend Thomas Murtagh thus became Marmora's first resident priest on October 22nd, 1894. On Friday, October 26th, 1894, Father Thomas Murtagh would write in the parish record book: . "I entered the parish of Marmora for the first time as its pastor, accompanied by Father Davis, pastor of Madoc, and not having a residence of my own, I went and remained as I always did in the past when I visited Marmora, with Captain John O'Neill, who for the past 15 years gave the priests a warm welcome in his house and entertained them gratuitously." In the photograph is Father Thomas Murtagh with eleven of his altar servers. They are sitting on the wooden steps leading to the brick church. In the front row (left) is Richard John Maloney (1895-1974) and in the centre row (left) is Edward Linus Maloney (18931977). Richard and Edward were the sons of John Edward Maloney (1864-1949) and Frances Elizabeth Wolfe (1863-1942).
Page 4
A RECTORY AT LAST "~n
October 22nd, 1894, I dismissed the children and ladies of the \lJ7 congregation and requested the men to remain and consult with me about the means of raising funds to erect a residence for the pastor, and also about the manner in which they were to furnish their pastor with sufficient means to support his position in a fit and creditable manner." "His Grace Archbishop Cleary then told them that a comfortable, commodious residence should be erected according to the plans and specifications sent by him and the amount necessary for this should be raised by three annual assessments, and to this they all agreed." "On December 2nd, 1894, I called a meeting of the committee to consult about furnishing a house. It was agreed on that I should collect from the ladies of the congregation as much money and material for house furnishings as I could buy and whatever else was required; all of which could be used in furnishing the Presbytery when built." "On January 15th, ] 895, I received plans and the specifications as ordered by His Grace the Archbishop, of the Presbytery to be built, and immediately called for tenders." "On March 1st, 1895, I opened the six tenders which I had received and submitted them to the committee. We unanimously decided to award the contract to Edward Shannon, a well known, honest and competent contractor and native of the parish; his tender being the most satisfactory for the sum of $] ,950. The verandah and summer kitchen to be extra. I then requested all parishioners to come on certain days and draw all the material for the Presbytery on the ground as we were obligated by coritract." "On July 7th, ] 895, I called a meeting of the committee to consult about levelling and beautifying the grounds and fencing them in. It was decided that the parishioners should do all of such work which they could do and thus spare expense. They came day after day when requested, until by their constant and prolonged labours, they placed the grounds in their present beautiful condition. " FATHER THOMAS MURTAGH, CHURCH, MARMORA
PASTOR
Page 5
OF
SACRED
HEART
THE REVEREND THOMAS MU RTAGH
r
1'Ii"h Reverend Thomas Murtagh was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora, \!J.;from October 26th, 1894, to February 28th, 1920. I
Father\urtagh was born on October 9th, 1863, in Kilcurry, Colehill, Longford County, Ireland. He was the son of John Murtagh and ElIen Hogan. He was educated at St. Nells Seminary, Longford, Ireland, and later at Carlow College. Father studied theology at All Hallows College, Dublin, Ireland. Father Murtagh was ordained a priest on June 8th, ] 889, at the Ancient College of Carlow, Ireland. Father Murtagh departed for Canada almost immediately after his ordination. He was assigned to St. Marys Cathedral, Kingston, for three years and was later appointed curate to Father Davis at Madoc, by Archbishop James Vincent Cleary. At that time Marmora was included in the Madoc parish. Father Murtagh celebrated his Silver Jubilee as a priest at Sacred Heart Parish in Marmora on June 21st, 1914. On Sunday morning immediately after Mass the congregation surprised Father ,Murtagh by presenting him with an address and a well-filled purse of gold as a token of their esteem for him and his work among them for twenty years. Father Murtagh smilingly remarked that on this occasion they were ahead of him as personally he did not like demonstrations. For this reason when asked from time to time the date of his Silver Jubilee, he always kept the date a secret. Father Murtagh had a severe attack of influenza in the fall of 1918. On November 17th, 1919, he went to Rochester, Minnesota, to consult with the famous Mayo brothers about his failing health. The Reverend Thomas Murtagh died on February 28th, 1920, in Marmora. Father Murtagh's monument, crafted from granite imported from Barre, Vermont, stands over .twelve feet high in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Marmora.
Page 90 [ [ l
1
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r r
THE REVEREND JOHN THOMAS HANLEY 1'Jj'he Reverend John Thomas Hanley was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, \lJ.IMarmora, from September, 1920, to July, 1923. He was born on December 1st, 1876, the son of William Hanley and Rose Jordan. parents and family were members of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Read, Ontario.
His
He attended the University of Ottawa in September, 1891, and later went to the Grand Seminary in Montreal, Quebec, in September, 1898. Father Hanley was ordained a priest on December 1st, 1901. His curate duties included: St. Francis Xavier, Brockville (June, 1902); St. Mark's, Prescott (November, 1902), and St. John the Evangelist, Gananoque (February, 1903). His pastoral appointments included: St. Phi lip Neri, Toledo, and its mission church, The Blessed Sacrament, Lombardy (1903-1920); Sacred Heart of Jesus, Marmora (19201923); St. Carthagh's, Tweed (1923-1928), and later St. Francis de Sales, Smiths Falls. On August 27th, 1928, while pastor at Smiths Falls, the Very Reverend John Hanley was appointed Dean of the deanery. On February 9th, 1948, a fire completely destroyed the newly renovated church in Smiths Falls. In 1949 Father was named Domestic Prelate, with the title of Right Reverend Monsignor. Monsignor Hanley died on November 17th, 1955, and is buried at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery in Smiths Falls.
Note: Immediately after the death of the Reverend Thomas Murtagh, on February 28th, 1920, the Reverend Jeremiah Patrick O'Riordan (1877-1937), pastor of Sacred Heart of Mary in Madoc, was appointed to replace Father Murtagh. However, Father O'Riordan refused the appointment, and as a result, Archbishop Spratt appointed the Reverend John Thomas Hanley as pastor of Sacred Heart in Marmora in September of 1920.
Page 91
THE REVEREND
AN DREW M. TRA YNOR
1'Jjhe Reverend Andrew Traynor was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora, Wlfrom 1923 to1925. He was born on March 6th, 1875, in Bailieboro County, Ireland. Father Traynor attended St. Patrick's College and Seminary at Armagh, Ireland. ordained a priest on January 21 st, 1904, at All Hallows College, Dublin Ireland.
He was
On his arrival in Canada, he assisted at St. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston, for a short period oftime. In 1904 Father Traynor was appointed by Archbishop Charles Henry Gauthier to the pastorate at St. Barnaby Church, Brewer's Mills, where he carried out his duties for over 19 years. Father Traynor was appointed pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Marmora, in 1923 by Archbishop Michael Joseph Spratt. Father Traynor sailed from Quebec City to his native home in Ireland on June 12th, 1924, aboard the steamship Caronia. He returned in October of that year. Despite ill health, Father Traynor gave all his energy to his new appointment in Marmora, celebrating the 100th anniversary on June 6th, 1925, of the building of St. Matilda's Church on the west banks of Crowe River. The Reverend Andrew Traynor died on September 20th, 1925, at Hotel Dieu Hospital, Kingston, Ontario. He is buried beside the Reverend Thomas Murtagh at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Marmora.
Page 94
THE REVEREND JAMES JOHN O'REILLY -71i"he Reverend James John O'Reilly was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, ~Marmora, from October, 1925, to August, 1928. Father O'Reilly and Father Thomas Murtagh were both curates and assistants to Father Davis who was pastor of Madoc, which at that time was the centre of the mission, dating back to 1879. Whenever Father Murtagh was away for lengthy periods from his Marmora parish, Father O'Reilly would take charge of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church and carry out the pastoral duties. Father O'Reilly was born around 1876. 1904.
He was ordained a priest on December
17th,
His pastoral duties included Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Enterprise (19091914). With the building ofa new brick rectory in Stirling in 1915, Father O'Reilly was authorized in 1916 by Archbishop Spratt to make Frankford a mission church and Stirling the parish. Father O'Reilly volunteered for overseas duty on the first day Canada entered World War I and returned to his parish in Stirling in 1919. He also became the first R.C.A.F. Military Chaplain - a position he proudly held until 1943. In 1923 Father O'Reilly of S1. Mark the Evangelist, Father Michael Meagher of Erinsville.
Prescott, switched parishes with
In 1928 he was appointed pastor of S1. Gregory the Great, Picton (1928-1929) and soon moved on to S1.Peter's, Trenton (1929-1946). During his appointment in Trenton, he was commissioned the first chaplain to R.C.A.F. Base, Trenton, Ontario. The Reverend James John O'Reilly died on August 27th, 1951, in Kingston, Ontario.
Page 95
THE REVEREND JAMES J. KEELEY • 1'Jj"he Reverend James 1. Keeley was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora \LV fro m August, 1928, to June, 1938. Father Keeley was born in ] 878.at Railton near Sydenham, Ontario, the son of James D. Keeley and Ceceily Ann Byrnes. Father Keeley was ordained a priest on December 22nd, 1906. Father Keeley held pastorates at S1. Daniel's, South Mountain; S1. Bridget's, Stanleyville; and St. Barnaby's, Brewers Mills, prior to his appointment as pastor in Marmora. Although Father Keeley was sick for very lengthy periods of time, he still was very active in the life of his parishioners and his community. It was Father Keeley who persuaded the mines of northern Ontario to procure their hardwood trees from Hastings County instead of using British Columbia fir. He also visited Premier Bennett in Ottawa in regard to having freight rates reduced for Ontario lumber. Father Keeley devoted much of his time trying to ease the high unemployment for the men of Marmora and his parish. He felt that construction of the new Highway No. 7 through Marmora might relieve the job situation for awhile. In August, 193 I, Father Keeley had completed a major restoration of Sacred Heart Church. The church was totally redecorated with a new lighting system and new aisle flooring and carpets. Sanctuary and nave paintings of St. Gabriel, S1. Michael, Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, and Jesus with the Little Children were added to the ivory walls and ceiling. On December 12th, 1931, Father James Keeley celebrated his Silver Jubilee as a priest at Sacred Heart Church, Marmora. Archbishop Michael O'Brien of Kingston and over 27 visiting clergy attended the joyous celebration. Father Martin and Father Agnew of Kingston assisted Father Keeley for over 15 months while he recovered from a serious illness during 1937 and 1938. The Reverend James 1. Keeley died on November 14th, 1940, and is buried at S1. Mary's Cemetery, Kingston.
Page 98
THE REVEREND HENRY J. FARRELL '7Ii'he ~from
Reverend Henry 1. Farrell was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora June 26th, 1938, to September 18th, 1949.
He was born on March 30th, 1887, in Drogheda, Eire, near the Boyne River. Father studied at St. Patrick's Seminary, Armagh, Ireland. He was ordained a priest on September 21st, 1914, at All Hallows College in Dublin, Ireland. In the same year Father Farrell left his native land and cameto Canada. While in Canada Father Farrell served as an assistant at Prescott, Gananoque, and later at St. Mary's in Kingston. Father Farrell was pastor at The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin, Enterprise, from September, 1921, until August, 1928; St. James the Minor, Stirling, and its mission, St. Francis of Assisi, Frankford, from 1928 until 1938. ,
Father Henry Farrell celebrated his Silver Jubilee as a priest on September 21 st, 1939. At his celebration in Marmora, Archbishop O'Brien, three Monsignori and 41 priests assisted at the Solemn High Mass. Father Farrell, V. F., P.P., was appointed Dean of Perth Deanery and pastor of St. John the Baptist Church, Perth. While pastor of the parish in Perth, he was named Domestic Prelate by the Holy See on December 12th, 1957, with the title of Right Reverend Monsignor. On May 15th, 1968, he offered his resignation to Archbishop Joseph Lawrence Wilhelm while still at his parish in Perth. The Reverend Henry 1. Farrell died in May, 1975, and is buried at St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Perth.
Page 99
"
THE REVEREND JOSEPH ANDREW O'NEILL
1'Ji"he
Reverend Joseph Andrew O'Neill was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, ~Marmora, from September, 1949, to September, 1953.
Father O'Neill was born in 1902 at Gananoque, Ontario, the son of Patrick O'Neill and Elizabeth Salmon. He studied in Gananoque; at Regiopolis College, Kingston; the Sulpician Montreal; and S1. Augustine's Seminary, Toronto.
Seminary,
Father O'Neill was ordained a priest in S1. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, on May 25th, 1929, by Archbishop Michael Joseph O'Brien. Father O'Neill was curate at S1. Mary's Cathedral (1929-1930); S1. John's Church, Perth (1930-1931); S1. Francis Xavier, Brockville (193]-1939); and returned to S1. Mary's as pastor from 1939 to 1949. After leaving Sacred Heart Parish, Marmora, in 1953, Father O'Neill was appointed pastor of S1. Francis Xavier, Brockville (1953-1969). While at Brockville he set up S1. Andrew's as a mission church at Lyn in 1965. He went into semi-retirement in Brockville in 1969 but spent his winter months in Florida until 1986. In November, 1966, Father O'Neill was named Domestic Prelate with the title of Right Reverend Monsignor. Monsignor Joseph Andrew O'Neill died on September 6th, 1999, at the Providence Manor, Kingston. He was buried at S1. Barnaby's Cemetery in Brewers Mills, the parish of his youth.
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THE REVEREND WALTER PATRICK HEALEY 1'J'rhe Reverend Waiter Patrick Healey was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, \llIMarmora, from September 20th, ] 953, to February 13th, 1966. Father Healey was born on December 31st, ] 906, at Stoco, Ontario, the son of Lawrence Healey and Cecily Way. Father Healey obtained his primary education in Hungerford Township and his secondary education at Regiopolis College, Kingston, and Alexander College, Ironside, Quebec. He attended St. Jerome's University, Kitchener, and then studied at St. Augustine's Seminary, Toronto. Father Healey was ordained a priest on May 21 st, 1932, in Kingston by Archbishop Michael Joseph O'Brien. From October, 1932, to February, 1934, he was on loan to the Sault Ste. Marie Diocese helping at North Bay, Ontario. From there he returned and assisted at St. Patrick' s Parish in Napanee from October, 1938 to 1941. Father Healey also served as an assistant in Deseronto, Picton, Tweed, and Brockville. Father Healey's first pastoral duties were at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Lanark and its three mission churches from 1941 to 1947, followed by St. Anthony ofPadua, Centreville, from 1948 to 1953, and then Marmora in 1953. Father Waiter Healey celebrated his Silver Jubilee as a priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Marmora, on May 21st, 1957. The Marmora Herald, dated May 30th, 1957, wrote the following: "Rev. W. P. Healey, parish priest of the Sacred Heart Church, Marmora, celebrated the Silver Anniversary of his ordination in the priesthood on Tuesday of last week. A special Mass was celebrated in the church at 7 p.m. followed by a Silver Jubilee dinner served by the ladies of the congregation. His Grace Archbishop O'Sullivan of Kingston and many priests from the surrounding area attended the Mass and the dinner." After serving the Marmora parish Father Healey was assigned to St. Mark's Parish in Prescott. He retired in Erinsvi lie, Ontario, in 1981. The Reverend Waiter Healey died on December 12th, 1986, at Belleville General Hospital and is buried at St. Edmund's Cemetery, Stoco.
Page 103
Father Waiter Healey, known to all as "Father Tim", a retired priest of the diocese, died on Dec. 12. He would have been 80 on Dec. 3l. Archbishop Spence and r visi~edhim Wednesday afternoon in the Belleville Hospital where he had been admitted several days before. In spite of a heart attack and his bed in the Intensive Care Unit, he was alert, sitting on the side of the bed in good spirits. But the apparent road to recovery did not last. Msgr. John Carley, pastor of St. Joseph's in Belleville, visited the sick room Thursday night and knew Father Healey's condition was worsening. He said the prayers for the dying. Father died Friday morning. I felt privileged when asked to give the homily at Father Healey's funeral Mass, because I had known him a long time and his death brought back many memories. They went-back almost 50 years when Father "Tirn" was a tall, thin, dark haired young-priest looking after the parish of St. Patrick's in Napanee and I was in last year high school. Father Healey was just a few years out of the seminary. After ordination he had been on loan to the diocese of Sault Ste. Marie for two years helping supply for their clergy needs at the time. Coming back to the diocese he was sent to Napanee to administer the parish during the illness of Msgr. Michael McDonald and after his death until a pastor was appointed.
Great voice It was during his several months in Napanee that parishioners got to know and admire this young priest with the great voice who gave great homilies, and was easy to get to know and like.. He also had a gift of looking after church property, and while he was in the parish he converted alarge field-like lawn around the rectory into one that looked like a well-kept fairway. These gifts of Father Healey were seen in all the parishes he served in as pastor, in Lanark, Cam den East, Marmora, Prescott and Erinsville from where he retired in 1981.
Another gift Father Healey possessed in large measure was
that of humor. He was a good story teller and his fund of anecdotes and joy in telling them made him an attraction in any crowd. His laughter at his own stories was infectious. When I wanted some direction about my "thinking about the priesthood" as a Grade 13 student, I went to Father Healey. He encouraged me and took me to Kingston to meet Archbishop O'Brien who was head of the diocese at that time. That visit came to provide Father Healey with one of his favorite stories and we talked about it on our last visit together in his sick room. Archbishop O'Brien was a big man. His eyes seemed to be set deeply into his head beneath a large protruding forehead. He was a man who paid great attention to eyes. He believed that eyes were the windows of the soul, and that he could judge a person's character by looking into his eyes, or even whether one was Catholic or not.
First meeting During our short meeting to discuss my possible vocation, we sat eyeball to eyeball, facing each other with no desk or table between us. It was my first meeting with an archbishop and I equated it almost on a par with talking to the Lord, so I was more than a bit nervous. The archbishop was very kind and told me where I should go to begin my studies for the priesthood. On the way home Father Healey asked: "Well, what did you think of the archbishop?" "He was very nice," I said without hesitation, "but gee," I paused thinking of his deep-set piercing eyes, "he has funny eyes!" Father- Healey roared laughing. I didn't know why. My remark wasn't intended to be funny. It was only after I was ordained that.l-found out why he laughed so hard, and I heard the story he had told many times with great enjoyment. Following the meeting, as I was on my way out to the car, Father Healey met with the archbishop and the subject 01 their conversation was myself. "What did you think of: him?" Father Healey asked. "Yes," the archbishop drawled in his deep voice, "Seems like a nice enough lad. But," he said scowling, "he has a kind of funny look in his eyes." Evidently it wasn't bad enough to refuse me entrance to the seminary. But the story of our mutual "funny eyes" meeting was good enough for Father Healey to ell all over the diocese. And all who knew Archbishop O'Brien and me got a good laugh out of it. Yes, I had a lot to remember Father Healey for in a grateful and humorous way. I was proud to preach at his funeral.
page 28, The Community
Press, December 16, 1986
A tribute to Father Waiter Hea.ley Mannora - "He had a beautiful 31, 1906, the son of Lawrence and life. His motto was, 'Keep the CiceleyHealey (nee Way). Faith'." Thus his housekeeper of He was ordained as a priest of 22 years, Mrs. Amelia Campbell, the Catholic Church on May 21, paid tribute to Father WaIter 1932, and served in various Healey who passed away on parishes until October 26, 1981. Friday, December 12, 1986, less He served Sacred Heart Church than three weeks before his 80th in Marmora from September 20, birthday. 1953 to February 15, 1966 and is Walter Patrick Healey was born still remembered by grateful at Stoco near Tweed on December parishoners for his patience and
good humour during a time of difficult decisions. In 1955 the Separate Schools of Marmora and Deloro were amalgamated and the present Sacred Heart School in' Marmora is a tribute to his efforts. When he decided to retire to the shores of Crowe Lake his Marmora parishoners wrote, "We thank God that you are retiring among us, and we pray that He
may grant you many years of good health." His- last parish before retirement, Erinsville, wrote to him on the 45th anniversary of his ordination, "We have grown to admire your generosity towards the aged and infirm. Your untiring participation in all our parish events is deeply appreciated. You have shown a special interest in the children of our parish and particularly in the students of St. Patrick School." Another tribute at the time of his retirement adds, "The masterful way in whichyou have expressed your messages on so many occasions reflects the Way sun shines in your heart and brightens ours." Through the years he had served parishes in Kingston, North Bay, Napanee, Deseronto, Picton, Tweed, Marrnora, Brockville, Lanark, Camden, Marmora again, Prescott, and Erinsville. Mrs. Campbell recalls especially his compassion and hospitality. "Father was a very down-to-earth man," she marvels. "Nobody ever called at the door that they didn't receivehelp." Visitation for Father Healey was held in Sacred Heart Church in Marmora on Sunday afternoon .'and evening, December 14. From there his body was taken to. St. Carthagh's Church in Tweed for visitation on Monday afternoon and evening, December 15.
Father WaIter H ealey passed away on December 12, 1986. The funeral service was on Tuesday morning, December 16, at St. Carthagh's Church, Tweed, with Father Raby expected to speak. Monsigneur Carley of Belleville, at one time Father Healey's altar boy, was speaker at the 25th, 45th, and 50th anniversaries of his ordination and at his retirement. Father Healey had told him, '.'You're not done yet, Monsigneur. You've got one more to do." However he did not feel up to speaking at the funeral.
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Hundreds greet Father Healey 'reds of well-wishers " out Sunday for a ial service and gather,.; in Sacred Heart Parish .Iall to congratulate Rev. Waiter P. Healey on the :,Oth anniversary of his ordination as a priest. Father Healey was ordained May 21. - 1932_ Born at Stoco. he was educated in Hungerford Township. Regiopolis College in Kingston, Ale xanders College at lronside , Quebec and St. Jeromc's College. Kit che ner. During his long career. Father Healev held pastoral charges at Lanark. Camde n, Prescntt. North Bay. Napa ne c. Brockville. Er nisville and Marmora. It was during his 13-vear
(J953-66) tenure in Marmora that the expanded Sacred Heart School was built. Taking part in Sunday's Feast of the Ascension were Pat rick Healey. J ames J ackson. Rev. Peter H. Murphy, Mr. and Mrs. Jean Healey, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Hcaley. Petitions were offered by the Parish .Council, Catholic Women's League, Knights of Columbus, Catholic Parent Teachers Association, students of Sacred Heart School and Father He aleys family. Greetings and presentations were conducted by Sacred Heart Parish Council Chairrnan Ray Merkley. Adding their congratulations were Monica Blute for
the CWL, John VanHeukelom. Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus; Mrs. Ann Wilman, CPTA; Marmora Village Reeve, Grant Airhart; Marmora and Lake Township Reeve Graham Bell; Deloro Village Reeve Cletus Green; HastingsPeterborough MPP Jim Pollock; Hastings, Fronrenac Lennox and Addington MP Bill Vankoughnet and Monsignor John Carley, of St. Joseph' s Parish, Belleville .. Following the service, Father Healey, who recently returned and lives on Crowe Lake. was greeted by his many old friends and parishioners in the parish hall. where refreshments were served.
•.
,
\
THE REVEREND FRANCIS JOHN SPENCE
"7Jj'he Reverend Francis John Spence was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora, \LI.Ifrom February, 1966, to July, 1967. Father Spence was born on June 3rd 1926, in Perth, Ontario, the son of William Thelute Spence and Rose Jordan. He attended the public school of Wayside and went to Perth High School before entering St. Augustine's Seminary, Toronto. In 1943 he received his Bachelor of Arts degree through St. Michael's College, University of Toronto. Father Spence was first appointed as secretary to Archbishop 0' Sullivan at S1. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston, for a period of two years. He went to Rome for his post-graduate studies in canon law and received his doctorate from the Angelicum University, Rome, in 1955. He returned to Kingston and was secretary for the Board of Directors of the Canadian Register newspaper from 1959 to 1960; the Director of Charities in Kingston from 1960 to 1961; the Director of Catholic Hospitals for the Archdiocese from 1960 to 1966, and the Officialis of the Archdiocesan Marriage Tribunal from 1960 to 1967. He commuted weekly to his office in Ottawa, returning on weekends for parish and diocesan duties. Each fall for four years he accompanied Archbishop O'Sullivan to Rome to all four sessions of the Second Vatican Council, which started in October, 1962, and ended in September, 1965. Father Spence was named pastor of Sacred Heart, Mal-mora, in February, 1966, and in November of that year was named a Domestic Prelate (Monsignor). During this period Father E.J. Keyes of Kingston assisted Monsignor Spence in Marmora with his pastoral duties. Monsignor Spence was named Auxiliary Bishop for the Armed Forces in April, 1967. His duties involved caring for the 100,000 Canadian Catholic families in the Armed Forces wherever they were stationed (Pakistan, India, Tanzania, and Germany). He was consecrated a Bishop in S1. Mary's Cathedral on June 15th, 1967. Bishop Spence said his first Mass in Marmora on June 25th, 1967. He was appointed Bishop of Charlottetown and was installed in S1. Dunstan's Basilica on September 29th, 1970. He was named Archbishop of Kingston on April 30th, 1982, and was installed as Kingston's 7th Archbishop of S1. Mary's Cathedral on June 30th, 1982. Archbishop Francis John Spence retired in June; 2002. It is worthy of note that Sacred Heart Church, Marmora, was the first and only parish that Father Spence had as a pastor.
Page 106
THE REVEREND T. GERALD SCANLAN 1Tr'he Reverend T. Gerald Scanlan was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora, Wlfrom August 2nd, 1967 to June] 5th, 1977. . He was born on August 19th, 1927, at West port, Ontario, the son of John 1 Scanlan (1888-1964) and Bridget Ethel Herlehey (1891-1974). Father Scanlan had seven brothers and two sisters. His older brother, FIO Wilfred G. Scanlan, was killed in action while serving with the R.C.A.F. during World War H. Father Scanlan attended St. Augustine's Seminary, Toronto. He was ordained a priest on May 22nd, 1952, by Archbishop Joseph Anthony O'Sullivan at his home parish, St. Edward's in Westport. After ordination Father Scanlan assisted Father lA. O'Neill at St. Bernadette's Orrnsby, and Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Marmora.
Church,
Father Scanlan was curate at St. John's, Kingston; St. Mark's, Prescott and St. Peter's, Trenton. His first pastoral duties were at St. Daniel's, Corners, from 1959 to 1967.
South Mountain, and St. Anne's, Dixon
After leaving Sacred Heart Parish, Marmora, in 1977, Father Scanlan was assigned to Holy Name of Mary Church, Marysville, from 1977 to 1987, and St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Deseronto, from 1981 to 1987. In 1987 Father Scanlan became the pastor of St. Carthagh's, Tweed, and St. Edmund's, Stoco. It was from these parishes that Father Scanlan retired in 2002. Father Scanlan celebrated his Silver Jubilee as a priest at Sacred Heart Parish, Marmora, on May 22nd, 1977. On that occasion he was presented a chalice by the Marmora Council of The Catholic Women's League of Canada. The Marmora Herald, dated May 25th, 1977 wrote the following: "A Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated at 9:30 a.m. and the parish council welcomed guests in the parish hall at an open house from 1 to 4 p.m. The C.W.L. served a dinner at 6 o'clock for his family and relatives, as well as Archbishop LL. Wilhelm and several visiting priests, including Rev. 1 P. Carty, Flinton."
Page 107
THE REVEREND PATRICK
J. CARTY
tJ1jhe Reverend Patrick 1. Carty was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora, \LJ.Ifrom June, 1977, to August, 1987. Father Carty is the son of Francis Michael Carty and Laura Mary Breen. He was born on September 19th, 1935, in Elgin, Ontario. Father Carty took his theological training at St. Michael's College, Toronto, followed by St. Augustine's Seminary. Father Carty was ordained a priest on May 28th, ] 961, at St. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston, by Archbishop Joseph Anthony O'Sullivan. After his ordination Father Carty served as an assistant at St. Michael's Parish, Belleville, until 1963. He moved to St. Carthagh's, Tweed, until 1966 and then returned to St. Michael's, Belleville, until 1970. Father Catty's first pastoral duties came with his appointment Flinton. Father served there from 1970 to 1977.
to St. John's Parish in
After leaving Sacred Heart Parish, Marmora, in 1987, Father Carty served the parishes of The Holy Name of Mary, MarysvilIe, and St. Vincent de Paul, Deseronto, until July 12th, 1991. While pastor of St. John the Baptist Church, Perth, from July, 1991, to July, 2003, he was named Domestic Prelate by the Holy See on December 2nd, 2001 . He was appointed pastor of St. Columbanus, Elgin, on July 16th, 2003. Like so many of the other resident priests of Sacred Heart Parish, Marmora, Father Carty also celebrated his Silver Jubilee as a priest in Marmora on May 25th, 1986. The Marmora Herald, dated May 28th, 1980 wrote the following: "Sunday was a beautiful day for a special celebration like the 25th Jubilee of Father 1. Patrick Carty as a priest. Guest speaker for the occasion was Father Dwyer from St. Michael's Parish in BellevilIe. He said while Father Carty is medium in stature, he is big in heart and soul. He has always been liked wherever he has been. He has a gentle disposition, he's always active, and he takes a keen interest in the upkeep of the church and rectory."
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Marmora - "We are here today with all her children and their "for the love of Pat", " said families. He was especially happy former Archbishop of Kingston to have the school children Roman Catholic Archdiocese, the participate in the Mass with Most Reverend Joseph Wilhelm. singing. Presentations were made to At the dinner for clergy friends and relative of Reverend J. Father Carty by the various parish Patrick Carty, His Grace echoed committees: Parishoners - chalice, the feelings of the large number of Catholic Women's League people who gathered Sunday, spiritual bouguet, Catholic Parent May 25, to help the pastor of Teacher Association - plaque, Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Knights of Columbus - monetary celebrate the 25th Jublilee of his gift, school children and teachers a stole, altar boys - book ordination to the priesthood. Reverend J. Patrick Carty celeThe present Archbishop, the containing selections of Larry brated the 25th Jubilee of his Most Reverend Francis Spence, Henderson's writings. ordination, Sunday, May 25th. The decorated parish hall was added his words of appreciation He has been pastor of Marmora the scene of a large reception after Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish since and respect in congratulating the Mass. Senior ladies of the Father Carty. July 1977. The dinner, given by the parish poured tea and coffee McMahon, Syracuse, Mrs. Rita Catholic Women's League, was while younger members kept Caccamo, Thunder Bay, Miss plates bountifully heaped with a followed by other speeches, including nostalgic and often special table of goodies for the Mary Carty, Belleville, Michael Carty, Elgin, Bill Carty, Stittsville amusing remarks and tributes by children. and Joe Carty, Arnherstburg. Because it was such a beautiful members of the Carty family and Weather, friends and relatives, cousins Rev. Peter Murphy and day many enjoyed sitting in the preparations and participation . shade on the spacious lawn. It was Rev. W.A. Dwyre. The highlight of the day was a also an opportunity to meet combined to make this an Mass of Thanksgiving at 2 p.m. Father Carty's four sisters and occasion to be remembered with con-celebrated with several clergy. three brothers - Mrs. Clare 'love and joy by Father Carty and Homilist was Father Dwyre and Legere, Toronto, Mrs. Frances everyone who attended. the parish organizations were represented by participation in different parts of the service. Father Carty warmly expressed his awareness of the preparations and involvement of so many people in making his jubilee such gift. " a joyful occasion. hood Jubilee Anniversary Father Car-ry which you celebrated last "We pray that God will grant Acknowledging the good Cont'd~from page 1 year." you health and happiness, and influence his parents, the late Mr. "Father, today, the parishion"At this time we wish to that His everlasting Love be Frank Carty and Mrs. Carty, had ers of Sacred Heart Parish always with you." recognize, commend,and on his desire and determination to share with you a sense of extend to you our sincere The children of Sacred Heart sadness in knowing that we are pursue his vocation, Father Carty thanks for your involvement School then sang a song to losing you as our parish spoke affectionately of his and help during times of happiFather Carty, "May God Be priest. " mother, who roudl attende With You." "Occasions such as this ness and sorrow; for your Farewell Get Together could be assumed as being enduring faith and worthiness . A farewell gathering was another part of the life of a 'in proclaiming the word of held in the Parish Hall from 2-4 priest, but we never really feel God; for your involvement with the school and religious pm Sunday, to give people a their impact until they occur." chance' to say their own "Ten years ago, we are sure teaching; for your active role personal good-byes and to have that the parishioners of the and help in the activities of the Catholic Women's League and one last chat with Father Carty Flinton Parish were experiencbefore he leaves on Aug. 12. ing there loss of you, as we now the Knights of Colurnbus ; for The parishioners donated are, while at the same time we your guidance and assistance in times of need; for your sandwiches, cakes, cookies were wondering who Father never ending involvement in and other snacks, served with Carty really was." keeping the church and its coffee and tea. "It certainly didn't take very identities in good order and Father Carty's Circus long for us to find out and know repair; for your involvement Elephant Ride that we are once again blessed and help in community needs On Tuesday, Aug.ll, Father with a very highly' respected and events and for the countCarty will be taking his first priest. This respect has not less other activities, too and what he hopes will be his only been shared by the numerous to' include, that you last elephant ride. He has been parishioners of Sacred Heart, have been associated with and asked by Lional Bennett, to be but by the community as a involved in." the celebrity who rides one of whole. " " As an expression of our the Miller-Kelly Bros. Circus "Ten years with us have appreciation to you, we ask elephants to offically start the slipped into the past, but we that you "accept this parting circus activities. will certainly cherish the countless occasions and events in which, with your charm and flair, have made them memorable. A significant highlight of your time with us was the occasion of your 25th Priest-
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Fareuiell: Father Cariyis leaving Sacred Heart _ by Eldon Barton Father Patrick Carty of the Sacred Heart Parish in Marmora, said his last Sunday Mass in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Aug. 9, and for the parishioners who have come to know Father Carty over the past 10 years, it was indeed a sad occasion, Father Carty is. moving to another parish, actually he is moving to take over two other parishes, one in Marysville, near Napanee and one in Deseronto. Of which Father Carty says, "Individually the § parishes are smaller, but t: together they amount to about the same size parish as what's <== here," .g He really feels that he is &S going to miss Sacred Heart and ~the people in the Marmora ~ area, but prists are periodical'Oly requested by the diocese to move to other locations. "We : all have different gifts to share, by moving to another Father Patrick Carty at his farewell gathering in the Sacred Heart Parish HaH on Aug. 9. Standing area possibly that could break
as
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beside him (right) is Ted Bedore, Chairman of Parish Council, and (left) Doug Lynch, both men made a presentation, on behalf of the parishioners, to Father Carty at Sunday Morninf} Mass.
the ice for someone here who wants to join our parish, but for some reason a personality or something like that prevented it, says Father Carty.'
. "I have come to appreciate the people in Marmora, and I enjoy their friendship and kindness ...especially the kindness they have had for my mother, who winters here every year. I will miss them all," he said. Farewell Presentation At Sunday Mass, Ted Bedore, Chairman of the Parish· Council and Doug Lynch, made a farewell presentation to Father Carty, on behalf of the parishioners, in appreciation of. Father Carty's service to them, Sacred' Heart and to the community. The. presentation speech, written by Ted Bedore, read, Coni'ti on page ~
Silver Jubike
Reverend
.T. Patrick
Carry
celebrates 25 years in priesthood In the special ceremony held by Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish last Sunday, Father Dwyer of St. Michael's Parish in Belleville, ran through Father Carty's life. Reverend J. Patrick Carty was born and raised on a farm in Elgin, Ontario. He was the son of the late Francis Carty and Mrs. Carty, the brother of four sisters and three brothers, all of whom were present for the special ceremony in Marmora. After his schooling in Elgin, he spent two years at St. Edward's, Westport. His theological training took place at St. Michael's College, Toronto, followed by St. Augustine's Seminary in Scarborough. After his ordination in 1961, Father Carty
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Dedicated service Father J. Patrick Carty is pictured here beside this statue near the church he has served jor nine years. He told his parishioners on Sunday that the only place he has stayed longer was his home, so he considers Marmora his second home.
served as an assistant in BelIevilIe until 1963. He then served in St. Carthagh's Parish in Tweed from 1963to 1966before spending the next four years at St. Michael's in Belleville. He served as pastor of St. John's, Parish, FIinton, from 1970 to 1978, when he came to Marmora's Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, where he has served since. 'No one is held in higher regard in this community than the man we are honoring today,' Father Dwyer said of Father Carty. Father Dwyer spoke of the 'iron constitutions' of priests in Marmora, possibly from the water in Marmora, and how many of them had gone on to great things after living long .lives. 'So, Father Carty, I feel that you are . going to go on to good things, too.'
THE REVEREND
JOHN F. GRAINGER
1Ti"he Reverend John F. Grainger was pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora, \l.I.Ifrom August, 1987, to July, 1994. Father Grainger is the son of Michael J. Grainger and Irene Gallo. Railton, Ontario, on December 26th, 1941.
He was born in
Father Grainger took his theology and philosophy studies at St. Augustine's Toronto.
Seminary,
Father Grainger was ordained a priest at S1. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston, on May 29th, 1966, by Archbishop Joseph Anthony O'Sullivan. Father Grainger had several associated pastor postings after his ordination: S1. Joseph's, Belleville, during the summer of 1966; S1. Carthagh's, Tweed, and the mission churches of S1. Michael' s, Sulphide, and S1. Bernadette, Ormsby (1966-1967); St. John the Evangelist, Gananoque, and the mission church, St. Philomena, Howe Island (1967-1969); St. Peter in Chains, Trenton (1969-1972); St. Michael the Archangel, Bellevi lie (19721975). From 1975 to 1986 Father Grainger was pastor of St. Francis of Assisi, Frankford, and the missions of Sacred Heart of Jesus, Batawa, and St. James the Minor, Stirling. In 1987 Father Grainger had sabbatical studies at the Franciscan Centre of Renewal, Santa Barbara, California. After leaving Sacred Heart Parish, Marmora, in 1994, Father Grainger was appointed pastor of the Blessed Sacrament, Amherstview, and the missions of S1. Linus, Bath, and St. Bartholomew, Amherst Island. On May 26th, 1991, Father Grainger celebrated his Silver Jubilee as a priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Marmora. The Marmora Herald, dated May 29th, 1991 wrote the following: "Let us give thanks for the gifts that Father John F. Grainger brought to the priesthood - his good sense of humour and his willingness to listen - very important in our times of loneliness and frustrations," said guest homilist Fr. William Steacy, CSSR, on the occasion of Fr. Grainger's 25th anniversary in the priesthood. Eight students from Sacred Heart School sang "God Is So Good". Organist Ada Brady accompanied a solo by Sheilagh Greensides, dedicated to Fr. Grainger ("May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You"), and Pamela Bedore accompanied the parishioners' rendition of "Like a Shepherd" at Communion. " Page 111
THE REVEREND JOHN JOSEPH BRENNAN
11rhe
Reverend John Joseph Brennan was appointed pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus \LJ.;Parish, Marmora, in July, 1994, and Dean of the Western Deanery in 2003.
Father Brennan was born on October 27th, 1951, the son of Clare Joseph Bren~an and Bernice Bridget Murphy. Father Brennan attended the parish schools of Charles Borromeo Parish in Read, Ontario. He later went to Nicholson Catholic College, Belleville; St. Peter's Seminary, Kings College, and the University of Western Ontario, London. Father Brennan was ordained a priest on May 28th, 1977, at St. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston, by Archbishop Joseph Lawrence Wilhelm. His first Mass at his home parish was offered at St. Borromeo Church, Read, on Pentecost Sunday, May 29th, 1977. Father Brennan was an assistant at St. Michael the Archangel, Belleville, from 1977 to 1981 and at St. Peter in Chains, Trenton, from 1981 to 1985. His first pastoral duties were at Sacred Heart of Jesus, Bedford, and its mission St. James Major Parish in Sharbot Lake, from 1985 to 1994. During the pastorate of Father Brennan in Marrnora, the third major renovations, restoration, and redecoration of the church were completed. The first major renovations were in the pastorate term of Father James Keeley in 1931. The second major renovations were in 1965 while Father Walter Healey was pastor.
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FATHER BRENNAN MARKS 25TH ANNIVERSARY
a Jtl entecost
Sunday in Marmora was a day of prayer and thanksgiving to 1PAlmighty God when the 25th anniversary to the priesthood of pastor Father John J. Brennan was celebrated in Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish. Concelebrating the 10 o'clock mass with Father Brennan were his seminar classmates, Father Patrick Dobec (Arnprior) and Father Labelle (Centreville). The church was filled to capacity with Father's family and relatives, friends from former parishes where he had served, and Marmora parishioners. Readers were Mrs. Jean Shannon and Blaine Wickens; the Offertory Procession by Father's mother, Mrs. Clare Brennan and his aunt, Sister Mary Alma. The sermon given by Father Labelle stressed the Holy Spirit, duty and responsibility. Music throughout the mass, with responses in Latin, was by the church choir. Raywood Hill supplied gorgeous white and red floral arrangements on the altar in honour of the Feast of Pentecost. At a reception in the parish hall, guests were welcomed by.Anita Bedore, chair of the Parish Council. On behalf of the parish, she presented Father with engraved three-piece holy oil stocks. Father Brennan expressed his gratitude and said that he was thankful for the presence of his mother, his family, relatives and friends. He acknowledged the presence of the Holy Spirit and thanked Him for many blessings in his life, and "1 pray that I might co-operate with the Holy Spirit." Father thanked members of the Parish Council and its committees for arranging this special day for him and requested that we pray for him and for all priests. The parish hall decorations were elegant and the head table was laden with trays of fruits, vegetables, fancy sandwiches and sweets. Music on the stage was by violinist Gabrielle Hamley and Carpe Diem. Visitors and parishioners signed a guest book at the hall entrance and perused the Apostolic Blessing imparted by Pope John Paul 11and presented earlier by Archbishop Spence. Also on display was a framed collage of personal photos depicting Father Brennan's ordination with churches where he had served. This surprise presentation to Father was made after a Mass two weeks ago by members of the C.W.L. "Wonderful," "elegant" and "a beautiful day in every way" were comments heard by parishioners during the day." C.W.L. President Linda Bracken said: "The whole day was the way he wanted it; he is a precious pastor" and from Jean Shannon, "It makes me proud to be a part of this parish and of this celebration. " Marmora Herald, May 25th, 2002, page 1 By Margaret Monk Page 115