Dear Families

Recently Fr Tom O’Connell’s (1933 to 2021) passing has occupied much of my thinking.  He was a wonderful man, completely filled with God’s love.  I especially loved Fr Tom’s sense of fun.  Sometimes I think, we all need a bit more fun. 

Fr Tom’s death marks the end of the extraordinary ministry of those Irish clergy who for so many years served the people of the Diocese of Sale. Following his Ordination at All Hallows Dublin (17th June 1956) Fr Tom made his way to Australia and commenced at Yallourn, then in the Parishes of Sale, Bairnsdale, Morwell, Leongatha, Neerim South, Wonthaggi, Koo Wee Rup, Cowwarr, Dalyston, Omeo, Fish Creek and Trafalgar and as Director of Propagation of the Faith.

Fr Tom will be remembered for his extrovert personality and priestly goodness. In both the joy and desert places of his ministry he had wonderful ‘angel messengers’ who walked with him and he with them. As a priest he brought friendship, delights, stories and songs to the presbyterate of Sale.

In his retirement in Trafalgar, initially privately and in recent years at Andrews House, he remained a beloved member of St John’s Parish and the wider community of Trafalgar.

We pray that, he has now met the God he loved and served face to face and enjoys the transfigured life of the resurrection.

Fr Tom’s Requiem Mass took place today at St John’s Church, Trafalgar.

Rest in Peace Fr Tom xx