We have learned with utter shock and sadness of the untimely death of Father Con Cronin RIP, curate in the Harbour Parishes of Passage West and Monkstown, who died as a result of an accident today.
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go to Father Con’s family, his wide circle of friends, parishioners and his fellow priests in the Saint Patrick’s Missionary Society, Kiltegan, as well as the priests of the Diocese of Cork and Ross.
This tragic accident also leaves another family mourning the loss of a loved one and I extend my prayerful support to his family also.
I pray for healing and peace for all who were injured and those who witnessed the accident. I wish to acknowledge the professionalism and kindness of the emergency services who attended the accident scene.
Father Con has served in the Harbour Parishes since 2012 establishing a warm rapport both pastorally and personally with all to whom he ministered and all who had contact with him.
He will be remembered fondly for his unique sense of humour and his openness to all people. He died on the day when the Gospel reminds us what happened the day Jesus asked Peter to step out of the boat and come to him across the water.
Jesus called out to him, saying, ‘Courage! It is I! Do not be afraid.’
Father Con who was ordained in 1979 courageously ministered in Africa with the Kiltegan Fathers for 25 years before returning to Ireland in 2004 where after promoting the missionary work of the church he settled into parish life in his native County Cork.
His love for his native place and its people — the Borlin Valley in Bantry Parish — has never wavered.
All who know Father Con are grateful for having known him and our diocese is blessed that he ministered among us.
We commend both men to the Lord and pray God’s comfort and consolation for all those who are in mourning.
ENDS
- Bishop Fintan Gavin is Bishop of Cork and Ross.
- The late Father Con Cronin was 72 years of age.
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long +353 (0) 86 172 7678
