In remembrance of Long-time IPS adjunct faculty member, Fr. Pat Brennan
Dr. Bob Ludwig sends along his reflections on Fr. Pat Brennan:
Fr. Patrick Brennan, RIP: Over the weekend, Pat Brennan drew his last breath and passed over into the mystery of communion with God. Patrick created some wonderful books on evangelization and mission as the focus of the post-Vatican II Church. His sensitivity to the suffering of others, especially psycho-spiritual suffering, led him to develop a focus on forgiveness, mercy, and compassion. He wanted the alienated to find new access to the gospel, and he wanted parishes to be centers of hospitality and celebration of good news. His work in the Archdiocese–and around the country–was ambitious and expected the Church to embody its faith in creative new ways. Thank God that he lived to see Pope Francis begin a reform and renewal that is long since needed. In the world of ideas and rhetoric, of influences direct and indirect, of hundreth monkeys–perhaps Patrick hastened the day for one such as Francis to lead the Church. At any rate, his passing is sad, but his presence was such a gift. His prophetic urgings for an adult Church that embraces the gospel at the level of experience and commitment will endure and feed our collective hope. Peace be to you, dear friend. –Robert Ludwig
The wake and funeral arrangements for Fr. Pat Brennan have been announced, and we wanted to share them with you.
Wake
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
3:00-9:00pm
St. Julie Billiart Church
7399 West 159th Street
Tinley Park, Illinois 60477
Funeral Mass
Thursday, December 5, 2013
11:00am
St. Julie Billiart Church
Main Celebrant: Monsignor Kenneth Velo
Often times Fr. Pat referred to our beautiful Cross of New Life and preached about our shared belief in life, death and resurrection through Jesus. It is fitting that we gather together again under this cross to remember Fr. Pat and honor his contributions to our community.
We would like all to join us for a special Memorial Mass.
Memorial Mass of the Resurrection
Saturday, December 7, 2013
12:30pm
Holy Family Catholic Community
2515 Palatine Road
Inverness, IL 60067
Special Hospitality to follow at Holy Family.
Many of you have asked how you can support the legacy of Fr. Pat. The Fr. Pat Brennan “Ignite the Laity” fund has been established and contributions will be accepted in lieu of flowers. For more information, contact IPS professor emeritus, Dr. Peter Gilmour at (773) 732-4868.