Monsignor Edward Kavanagh, a native son of Ireland who came to Sacramento in 1948, died today of natural causes. He was 93 and passed away on St. Patrick’s Day. For nearly 60 years, Monsignor Kavanagh was pastor or in residence at St. Rose Parish in South Sacramento. During his remarkable ministry, he oversaw an orphanage, day-care center, and a school along with numerous community charities. St. Patrick’s Academy, a K-8 parochial school, continues at the site.
The Most Rev. Jaime Soto, Roman Catholic Bishop of Sacramento, issued the following statement on the news of Monsignor Kavanagh’s death:
“Monsignor Ed Kavanagh was an indomitable priestly figure, a force of nature. He cared deeply for the community, working tirelessly on behalf of the poor and children. He was an indefatigable defender of the unborn, always fighting to end the practice of abortion, because he believed all children deserve a chance. He gave his heart to the children and young people who passed through St. Patrick’s Home and Academy.
“Did you need a job? A place to live? Maybe an old car to get to that job? A few dollars for gas? Monsignor Kavanagh would always find a way.
“In all this Ed Kavanagh believed he was simply being a parish priest. His voice would frequently bellow with the words of the hymn he deeply loved, ‘When Christ shall come, With a shout of acclamation, To take me home what joy shall fill my heart, Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim my God how great thou art.’ I am sure St. Peter and St. Patrick can already hear him coming.
Here are Rosary and Funeral details for Monsignor Edward Kavanagh:
This Thursday March 22nd:
– 6pm Viewing at St. Rose Parish (5961 Franklin Blvd, Sacramento).
– 7pm Rosary, followed by prayer vigil throughout the whole night.
This Friday March 23rd:
– 12 noon Holy Mass at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament (1017 11th St, Sacramento, CA)
– Reception following the Mass at Msgr Kavanagh Hall (5905 Franklin Blvd, Sacramento, CA)
From Diocese of Sacramento website and Californians for Life.
Ahh Bewgorrah – and a fine Man He Was
In honor of his passing on St. Paddy’s Day, I submit an ‘Irish Joke’ told by the Pastor at Mass last Saturday:
What is Irish and sits in the back of the house?
Paddy-O-Furniture
Ahem – Erin Go Bragh
May Msg. Edward Kavanagh, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Nevertheless, I do not think he will be needing my prayers, as if ever a man were a saint, I believe he was one.
He fought for the faith during the terrible post Vatican 2 years. He was a loyal friend of JESUS, may Almighty God welcome him to Glory in Heaven!!
Perhaps a bit of clarification. First paragraph says arrangements pending. Last paragraph gives details.
Thank you, the story has been updated. Funeral arrangements are as stated.
Father Kavanagh arrived in Sacramento and was appointed assistant pastor at St. Rose in December of 1948. In 1954, he was appointed director of Saint Patrick’s Orphanage serving a hundred children. On June 21, 1962, he was also appointed pastor of Saint Rose Church in Sacramento.
He worked over 50 years (1954 to 2005) as director of St. Patrick’s Home for Children, still overseeing Saint Patrick’s School and Saint Rose’s Church. He was a strong voice for pro-life and received national notoriety when he refused to allow Governor Pete Wilson to visit the Home with Christmas gifts because of the Governor’s support for abortion.
In 1960, he swapped ten acres of the church land required for a state freeway in return for twenty-five…
Another Irish joke for the Msgr to enjoy (or tell).
What is the only named for an Irish-man?
O-Regon!