RIP: Special Mass to mark ordination anniversary of local priest who died at 36-years-old

The Silver Jubilee of a priestly ordination is always a cause of great joy for parishioners, families and of course the priest himself, and it is always marked in a special and significant way.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood of a remarkable, humble, prayerful and genuine priest who sadly, died at the young age of 36 in 2009 after serving as curate in both SS Peter & Paul’s Clonmel and Holy Cross Tramore.

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Fr Colm O’Brien was ordained to the priesthood on June 4, 2000 by Bishop William Lee in his home parish of St Paul's in Waterford.

A day of great celebration for his father Tom, sister Lisa, aunt Lilli and many extended family friends and parishioners.

Even though he was only with us a short time in those nine short years of priesthood, his impact and gentleness to all he met had a profound effect. Indeed, he achieved so much more than many of us could in a lifetime.

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That was what Colm was like with everyone.

He always spoke to anyone he passed by – either to say “hello” or to chat for a while.

Fr Colm was always very grateful for all the little things in life.

He would continually thank people for even the smallest word of gesture – and he often gave more to others.

He had a great sense of humour and was an example of prayerful priestly ministry.

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Although we are still feeling Colm’s loss, let us as Colm himself would remind us, that out of darkness comes light.

That this is not the end. And that we should follow Fr Colm’s example of gratefulness to God, as we say “Thank You” to him for Fr Colm O’Brien.

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For allowing us to know and be with him, and for allowing him to touch all of our lives in so many different ways.

A way of celebrating and thanking God for Fr Colm’s life and priesthood, Bishop Cullinan will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving for the Priesthood of Fr Colm, on what would have been his 25th anniversary, on Tuesday, June 3 at 7.30pm in St Paul's Church, Waterford.

Everyone is most welcome to come to the Mass and give thanks to God for the impact Fr Colm made in those years, and to pray for the happy repose of his soul.