Arthur G. O'Rourke, O.S.A.

1930 – 2003 (January 14)

Arthur Gerard O'Rourke, son of Herbert O'Rourke and Mary Ellen Reilly, was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, on May 26, 1930. He was baptized in St. Mary Church, Brookline, on June 29, 1930, where he received his elementary and high school education. In September 1948, he became a post graduate postulant at Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, N.Y. In September 1949, Arthur entered Our Lady of Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg, N.Y, and on September 10, 1950, professed simple vows. He attended Villanova from 1950 to 1953, where he received his BA Degree in Philosophy, and continued his studies at Augustinian College, Washington, D.C. receiving an MA in Theology and Religious Education. He professed solemn vows on September 10, 1953 and was ordained to the priesthood at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, D.C. on June 8, 1957. In August 1957, he completed an MA degree from Strayer Business School, Villanova University.

Father Art's first assignment was as a member of the faculty of Augustinian Academy, Staten Island from 1957 to 1958. From 1958 to 1971, he served as assistant pastor at Saint Mary’s Church, Waterford, N.Y., and in 1962, was elected sub-prior. In August, 1971, he was appointed pastor and treasurer of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, Atlantic City, N.J., and in 1975, was given the added responsibility of prior of that community. From 1980 to 1982, Father Art served as associate pastor at Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, Jamaica, N.Y., where he celebrated his silver jubilee of ordination. In August, 1982, he returned to Upstate New York and served again in Saint Mary’s Church, Waterford, for one year, when he became associate pastor at the Assumption/Saint Paul parish in Mechanicville, where he remained for five years.

In 1988, Father Art was appointed treasurer of Our Mother of Good Counsel Monastery at Merrimack College, No. Andover, Mass., where he assisted with the care of the elderly friars. In 1995, he was assigned as associate pastor of Saint Mary’s Parish, Lawrence, where his health began to fail, such that in August, 2001, he retired to the health care unit at Saint Thomas Monastery, Villanova. In January 2003, during the renovation of the monastery, the health care unit was moved to Saint Joseph Friary at Bonner High School, Drexel Hill, Pa., and Father Art died there on January 14, 2003.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Saint Mary/Immaculate Conception Church, Lawrence, on Sunday, January 19. Interment was conducted the following day at Saint Mary/Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Lawrence.

Father Art was known throughout his life as a man of gentleness and good humor,a loyal brother and a faithful priest. His spontaneous compassion toward everyone he met and his conscientious care for those hospitalized and the infirm friars, were his dominant traits. His sense of justice was reflected in the amount of a gratuity he offered in restaurant services. Over the years Father Art showed dedication to his sister, Sister Mary O'Rourke, CSJ, who, at the time of his death, was actively involved in ministry in the parish of the Blessed Sacrament, Saugus, Ma.
 

James T. O'Reilly, O.S.A.

1851 – 1925 (November 12)

James Thomas O'Reilly was born on May 1, 1851 in Lansingburg, New York, to Edward O’Reilly and Maria McGrane. After receiving his early education from the Christian Brothers in Troy, he enrolled at Villanova College in September 1866. In January 1868, he entered the novitiate at Villanova, and professed simple vows on May 4, 1869. He made solemn profession on May 5, 1872, and following studies, was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Wood of Philadelphia on March 15, 1874 at the Overbrook Seminary.

After ordination, Father O'Reilly was served at Villanova as Professor, Procurator and depositarius. In addition, he served as pastor of Saint Denis' in Ardmore where he took up residence in February 1879. On August 14, he was appointed prior and pastor of Saint John in Schaghticoke, New York, where he served until July 26, 1886 when he appointed prior and pastor of Saint Mary's in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Father O'Reilly was pastor of Saint Mary's for 39 years and he served his people, community, Order, and church with outstanding devotion and distinction. A local paper, The Evening Tribune, paid tribute to him when, on November 12, 1925 it wrote that "In practically every one of his 39 years as head of Saint Mary's parish, some notable achievement stood out."

Among Father O'Reilly's numerous contributions were: the building of Saint Monica's church at Johnsonville, New York; Saint Monica's in Methuen; Saint Augustine's in Lawrence, and The Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Lawrence, Massachusetts. He also introduced the Xaverian Brothers into the Lawrence school and established parishes for the Greek, Melchite, Maronite, Portuguese, and Lithuanian people of the area. Father O'Reilly was also instrumental in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of the Textile Strike of 1922, which affected more than 20,000 workers.

In addition, he cooperated in inventing and patenting a sanctuary votive candleholder, which became popular in many churches. Father O'Reilly was considered to be an eloquent orator, and he demonstrated his versatility and knowledge on many occasions. Father O'Reilly was 74 when he died on November 12, 1925, after suffering from poor health from some months. A Solemn High Requiem Mass was celebrated at Saint Mary’s on Monday, November 16, 1925 with the Father Joseph Hickey, O.S.A., Assistant General as celebrant. In attendance were William Cardinal O’Connell, Archbishop of Boston, and Father Nicholas Vasey, O.S.A., Prior Provincial.

Father O’Reilly was buried in Saint Mary's Cemetery, Lawrence. The Business Administration Building at Merrimack College and a bridge connecting North Andover with Lawrence in Massachusetts, were named in his honor.

Edward A. O'Reilly, O.S.A.

1849 – 1889 (January 2)

Edward Augustine O'Reilly, son of John O'Reilly and Margaret Corcoran, was born in Maryborough, Ireland, September 8, 1849. He began his studies in Laois County, Ireland, and later, with the Oblate Fathers in England. Coming to America he entered the novitiate at Villanova, Pennsylvania, on January 21, 1871, pronounced simple vows on January 22, 1872, and solemn vows on January 24, 1875. After four years study at Villanova he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Stephen V. Ryan of Buffalo at Germantown, Pa., on July 18, 1875.

Father O'Reilly's first assignment was as an assistant at Old Saint Augustine's in Philadelphia, Pa., from 1875 to 1877. Afterward he served for four years as assistant pastor at Saint Mary's Parish, Lawrence, Massachusetts, from 1877 to 1881. The remaining years of his ministry were spent as a professor of Latin and Greek at Villanova College. During this period, Father O'Reilly tended also to the spiritual welfare of the parishioners of the Berwyn Mission. Known as a zealous laborer in the Lord's vineyard he was deeply loved by the people. 

Father O’Reilly had been ailing for several months with apoplexy, but seemed to be on the road to recovery. His spirits were good and he entered the new year with great promise. His death, therefore, came as a great shock not only in its timing, but also in its manner. He was overcome in his room in the Villanova Monastery from gas vapors during the night of January 2, 1889, and despite the efforts of the friars to revive him, his already weakened condition made him most vulnerable. He was 39 years of age.

The Funeral Mass was offered at Saint Thoams of Villanova Church with a large participation of friars, faculty and students, after which Father O’Reilly was buried in the Community Cemetery at Villanova. 

Martin J. O'Neill, O.S.A.

1910 – 1993 (February 27)

Martin John O'Neill was born June 23, 1910 in New York City to Thomas O’Neill and Alice Robinson. He had one brother and four sisters, and was baptized on July 17, 1910 at Saint Angela Merici Church in New York. He was received into the novitiate on September 11, 1930. He professed simple vows on September 12, 1931 and solemn vows on September 12, 1934. Martin received a B.A. in Philosophy from Villanova College, Villanova, Pennsylvania, in 1935, and pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, D.C., from 1935 to 1939. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 7, 1938 in Washington.

Father O'Neill was assigned to teach at Saint Rita High School, Chicago, Illinois, in 1939. In 1941, when the Augustinian Province or Our Mother of Good Counsel was formed, he was affiliated to this new Province. In 1942 he was assigned to Saint Monica High School Seminary, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, to teach. He was transferred in 1944 to Cascia Hall, Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he served as teacher, procurator from 1944 to 1947, and assistant headmaster from 1947 to 1959. That latter year he became rector at Mendel Catholic High School, Chicago. He was also elected to the Province Council in that year. From 1962 to 1965 he served as principal of Augustinian Academy, St. Louis, Missouri.

In 1965 Father O’Neill returned to Cascia Hall, as headmaster, a post he held until 1968. From 1968 until 1971, he was in charge of recruitment, and in 1971 he resumed teaching.

Because of failing eyesight, he gradually relinquished teaching duties at Cascia Hall. His years as a senior member of the Cascia Hall community were filled with activities and service for others. He died on February 27, 1993, following a long and debilitating heart ailment. He was 82. Father O'Neill is remembered as a caring and sensitive priest who lived the Augustinian life with a faith-filled spirit.

He is buried in the Augustinian plot at Calvary Cemetery, Tulsa.
 

Hugh P. O'Neill, O.S.A.

1893 – 1965 (January 4)

Hugh Patrick O'Neill, son of Hugh O'Neill and Rose Ann Hughes, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, on September 16, 1893. He attended Lisburn National School for five years and Saint Malachy College in Belfast for three years before immigrating to the United States. From Old Saint Augustine parish in Philadelphia he enrolled in the Augustinian Preparatory Scholasticate, Saint Rita Hall, Villanova, as a postulant in September 1911. He was received as a novice on June 19, 1913, pronounced simple vows on June 19, 1914 and solemn vows on June 24, 1917. All of his formal philosophical and theological training he obtained at Villanova where he was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1917 and a Master of Arts degree in 1920. After completing his studies for the priesthood, he was ordained by Archbishop Dougherty at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul May 29, 1920.

In 1921 Father O'Neill was assigned to Saint Augustine parish, Havana, Cuba, and the following year he was named procurator of the community. On returning to the States he was stationed at Saint Rita Parish, Philadelphia from 1923 to 1924, Our Mother of Good Counsel parish, Bryn Mawr, from 1924 to 1932, and Saint Thomas of Villanova parish, Rosemont, from 1932 to 1933. Father O'Neill was then transferred to Saint Mary's parish, Lawrence, MA, where he remained until 1962. During these many years at Saint Mary's he served the parish and the Augustinian Community in a number of capacities. His specific assignment was responsibility for the west end district of the parish, and was in charge of editing Our Parish Calendar, a monthly parish publication.

A gentle, unassuming friar, Father O'Neill quietly went about his labors in the Lord's vineyards bringing God's counsel and solace to a generation of grateful Lawrencians. Beset by prolonged illness in his later years, he was cared for by the Grey Nuns at the Mary Immaculate Nursing Home in Lawrence from 1962 until his death on January 4, 1965. The Funeral Mass was celebrated by Prior Provincial, James Donnellon, O.S.A., at Saint Mary’s Church, Lawrence, on January 8, 1965, with burial in the Augustinian plot in Saint Mary's Cemetery, Lawrence. 

Charles P. O'Neill, O.S.A.

1871 – 1927 (April 19)

Charles Patrick O'Neill was born in County Carlow, Ireland on March 17, 1871. He entered the novitiate at Villanova, Pennsylvania on June 29, 1902, and was ordained a priest at Villanova by Bishop O'Reilly of Baker City Oregon on July 11, 1906. Father O'Neill spent his whole life as a priest in teaching and preaching. He taught at Villanova College and at Saint Rita's High School in Chicago, Illinois, where he died at Saint Rita's on April 19, 1927 at the age of 58. He is buried in Chicago. 

Arthur J. O'Neil, O.S.A.

1909 – 1984 (May 26)

Arthur Joseph O'Neil was born in Binghamton, NY, on March 18, 1909, the son of Edward O'Neil and Catherine Hayes. He attended Saint Mary's Parochial School in Binghamton and Binghamton Central High School. In his third year of high school he transferred to Augustinian Academy, Staten Island. He was received into the novitiate on September 9, 1936, and professed simple vows on September 10, 1940. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Villanova in 1941 and pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, D.C., where he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Corrigan at Trinity College on May 29, 1943. He also gained a Master of Arts degree in Religious Studies at The Catholic University of America in June 1944.

Father O'Neil was assigned to the Parish of Saint Augustine in Havana, Cuba, where he served as an assistant pastor. In October of 1946 he was transferred to the Parish of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine in the Bronx. In 1948 he was sent to the Colegio Santo Nino de Cebu in the Philippines, where he taught until the summer of 1950. He was then assigned once again to Cuba, to the parish of Saint Augustine in Marianao. He also taught at the University of Saint Thomas.
In 1951 he was assigned to work at various locations in the United States: Saint Nicholas of Tolentine, Jamaica, NY, from 1951 to 1954; Saint Denis, Havertown, PA, from 1954 to 1957; Saint Mary's, Waterford, NY, in 1957, and Saint Augustine, Troy, NY, from 1958 to 1968. He was then appointed prior and pastor of Our Lady of Angels Parish, Jacksonville, FL, until the Province withdrew from the parish in 1978.

In the seminary Father O'Neil was exceptionally studious. He kept scrupulous notes and prepared well for oral examinations. An avid sports fan, he knew of all the players and their teams. He was an enthusiastic conversationalist with a wide circle of influence.In 1978 Father O'Neil retired to Saint Thomas Monastery, Villanova. In 1983 he became ill, and when his malady became rather severe, he was cared for at Saint Joseph's Villa by the Sisters of Saint Joseph. He died on May 26, 1984. Father O'Neil is buried in the Augustinian plot at Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, PA.
 

Joseph J. O'Malley, O.S.A.

1904 – 1971 (October 28)

Joseph John O'Malley was born at Hoosick Falls, New York, on May 24, 1909, to John O’Malley and Mary Curry, and was baptized there in Immaculate Conception Church on June 13. In 1928 he entered the novitiate at New Hamburg, N.Y. and made his first profession on September 10, 1929. He was solemnly professed on September 10, 1932. After completing studies at Villanova with a B.A. in Philosophy, and in Washington, D.C. at Augustinian College, he was ordained to the priesthood on June 9, 1936. He pursued additional studies at The Temple School in Washington, De Paul University, Chicago, IL., and the University of Southern California. 

From 1937 to 1941 Father was stationed at Saint Rita High School in Chicago. From 1941 to 1945 he taught at Saint Augustine High School in San Diego, CA. In 1945 he returned to Saint Rita High School he remained there until 1966 when he became prior and associate pastor of Saint Matthew parish in Flint, MI.

Father O'Malley was known for his work with athletic groups, both in Chicago and in Flint. In Chicago, he served as Athletic Director at St. Rita High School, coached baseball teams there, and also coached Pony League and Little League teams in the surrounding neighborhood. After his transfer to Flint, he coached baseball teams at St. Matthew School. In recognition of his contribution to the youth of Flint, the City Commission proclaimed May 27, 1979 as Father Joseph J. O'Malley Day. Father O'Malley died on October 28, 1971 in Flint and is buried at the Augustinian plot in Chicago.

Joseph F. O'Malley, O.S.A.

1904 – 1981 (August 6)

Joseph Francis O'Malley was born December 14, 1904 in Hoosick Falls, New York to Martin O’Malley and Mary McCormick O'Malley. He was baptized there on Christmas Day, 1904 at Immaculate Conception Church, and received the Sacrament of Confirmation May 18, 1916 at St. Joseph Church, Greenwich, New York. In 1921, he graduated from Greenwich High School, and began collegiate studies at Villanova College, Villanova, Pennsylvania, in 1922. He was received into the novitiate on June 21, 1923, professed simple vows on June 22, 1924 and solemn vows on June 22, 1927. Joseph earned a B.A. in Philisophy from Villanova College, in 1926, and pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, D.C. from 1926 to 1930. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 10, 1929, and did additional studies at Catholic University of America, Washington, and at the University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.

Father O'Malley was assigned in 1930 to teach in Havana, Cuba. In 1932 he returned to the United States, serving as Chaplain at Villanova College, Villanova. Beginning in 1933, he taught for ten years at St. Thomas High School, Rockford, Illinois. From 1943 to 1951 he served as assistant pastor at St. Clare of Montefalco Parish, Chicago. He taught at St. Rita High School, Chicago, from 1951 to 1960, and was named pastor of St. Clare of Montefalco Parish, Chicago, in 1960.

Father O’Malley served in the Augustinian Missions in Chulucanas, Peru during 1965 and 1966. He returned to the United States at the end of 1966 and joined the faculty of Augustinian Academy, St. Louis, Missouri. He was sent again to St. Rita High School, Chicago, in 1968. He was assigned in 1969 to St. Augustine Seminary, Holland, Michigan, where he served as Chaplain to the Augustinian Contemplative Nuns, whose convent was on the seminary grounds. In 1977 he moved to St. Monica Monastery, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. 

After a lengthy illness, Father O’Malley, known as a man of goodness, kindness and compassion, died on August 6, 1981. He is buried in the Augustinian plot at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, Illinois.
 

Daniel J. O'Mahoney, O.S.A.

1856 – 1951 (March 2)

Daniel John O'Mahoney, was born to Jeremiah O’Mahoney and Mary Toomey, on May 27, 1856, in Smithtown, New York. Three years later the family returned to Ireland where Daniel was educated and received First Communion and Confirmation. In 1871, when he was fifteen years old, the O'Mahoneys returned to America settling in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where Daniel worked in the card and drawing rooms of the Pacific Mill. In 1874, he began studies at Villanova College, and on January 26, 1877, he entered the novitiate. He made his first profession of vows on January 29, 1878 and solemn vows on February 2, 1881. On June 11, 1881, he was ordained to the priesthood at the Vincentian seminary, Germantown, Pa., by Bishop Jeremiah Shanahan.

On July 5, 1881, Father O'Mahoney received his first assignment to Our Mother of Consolation Parish, Chestnut Hill, Pa. In 1882, he was appointed to the Parish of the Immaculate Conception, Hoosick Falls, N.Y. He remained there until 1889, when he was assigned to Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, Atlantic City, New Jersey. In September 1892, Father O'Mahoney became an assistant in Saint Mary's Parish, Lawrence, Mass. In 1898, he was elected fifth definitor and appointed prior and pastor of Saint Augustine Parish, Andover, Mass. Here he completed the reconstruction of the church begun by Father Thomas Field following a fire of November, 1894. 

In 1902, at the end of the Spanish-American War, Father O'Mahoney, together with Father John A. McErlain, O.S.A., volunteered to open a mission in Manila, the Philippine Islands. Father O'Mahoney conferred with William Howard Taft, Governor General of the Philippines, and later President of the United States, regarding the distribution of Augustinian property and the liberation of imprisoned friars. The plan for an American house there was reconsidered and the friars were recalled to Villanova in February, 1905. Father O'Mahoney then became a member of the Augustinian Mission Band, while residing at Saint Mary's in Lawrence. In 1917, he was appointed prior and pastor of Saint Augustine Parish, Philadelphia, Pa., and later became sub-prior of the Saint Mary community, Lawrence, where he served for 24 years, from 1922 to 1946. Ecumenical in spirit Father Dan was respected by people of all faiths. While walking in Lawrence or Andover he greeted everyone along the way. His quick humor and engaging personality made of ordinary people, friends. 

In 1946, his health failing, Father Dan retired to Saint Thomas Monastery. He died on March 2, 1951 at Our Lady Help of Christians Convalescent Home in Philadelphia. A Funeral Mass was offered in Saint Thomas of Villanova Church, and a second Requiem was celebrated at Saint Mary's, Lawrence, where hundreds of priests, religious and lay people filled the church. Interment was at Saint Mary's Cemetery, Lawrence. 

Albert C. O'Loughlin, O.S.A.

1894 – 1956 (January 3)

Albert Clement O'Loughlin, one of nine children of Colman P. O'Loughlin and Frances C. Burgoon, was born on September 23, 1894 in Brookville, Pennsylvania. He attended the local parochial grammar school and then entered the Augustinian Preparatory Scholasticate on September 24, 1909 at Saint Rita Hall, Villanova. Two of his sisters had previously joined the Sisters of Mercy at Merion, Pa. On June 13, 1913 Albert was admitted to the novitiate at Villanova and professed simple vows on June 19, 1914, and solemn vows on June 23, 1917. He pursued philosophical and theological studies at Villanova, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1917 and a Master of Arts degree in 1920. He was ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Dougherty at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia on May 29, 1920. 

In September, 1920, Father O’Loughlin was assigned to Washington, DC, for graduate work in history at the Catholic University of America. Father discontinued his studies at the Catholic University in March, 1922, due to ill health, and was assigned to Hoosick Falls, New York, where he remained in parish work until September 1923, when he was transferred to Augustinian Academy, Staten Island. In the provincial chapter of 1924 he was transferred back to Hoosick Falls where he remained until 1929. There followed tours of duty at Saint Augustine, Troy, New York and Villanova Preparatory School, Ojai, California. Beset by continuing ill health he returned to Villanova Monastery in 1936. From 1946 until his death he taught at Augustinian Academy, Staten Island. 
Father O'Loughlin was a superb teacher of Latin, algebra, and American history. His fairness and deep concern for the spiritual and physical welfare of the students endeared him to the whole community. Father died on January 3, 1956, as he was returning by train from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia. The cause was heart failure. His Funeral Mass was offered on Saturday, January 7, 1956 at Villanova by his cousin, Father Joseph Shannon, O.S.A. The homilist was Father James Gallagher, O.S.A.

Father O’Loughlin was buried in the Community Cemetery at Villanova.

John S. O'Leary, O.S.A.

1890 – 1964 (March 2)

John Stanislaus O'Leary, son of John O’Leary and Mary Ellen McCarthy, was born on October 13, 1890 in County Cork, Ireland. He received his early education at the National School, Blarney, Ireland, and the Christian Brothers of North Monastery, Cork. At the age of fifteen, he journeyed alone to the United States to join his father who had preceded him to Philadelphia. John entered Villanova Preparatory School on September 11, 1908, entered the novitiate on June 20, 1912, professed simple vows on June 20, 1913, and solemn vows on December 8, 1916. He obtained an A.B in June 1916, and an MS in June 1919, both from Villanova. He also did graduate work at the University of Pennsylvania. On June 8, 1919, John was ordained to the priesthood by Dennis Cardinal Dougherty in the chapel of Saint Charles Seminary, Overbrook, Pa. Father O'Leary was a member of Saint Thomas Monastery community from the time of his ordination to his death, fifty-six years later. 

As a Villanova faculty member, most of his teaching was in the Engineering School, though he is noted for his expertise in Mathematics. In addition he taught Chemistry, Philosophy, Theology, and Public Speaking. He also taught at Rosemont College. While most of his ministry was dedicated to collegians, he gained popularity, as well, as a homilist and poet, and among grade school children during his weekend ministry for over twenty-five years, at Holy Spirit Parish, in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Father John Klekotka, O.S.A., who was homilist at Father O’Leary’s funeral, and his former student, summed up his life as Augustinian, priest and teacher, when he said, “As a priest teacher and counselor in a men’s school, he gave outstanding personal example of a thoroughly manly religious life based on deep-seated conviction, implemented by a vigorous self-discipline. He demonstrated personaly as well as verbally, a priesthood of character, of vigor, of high ideals, of good common sense. For him religious life was first of all life. He lived intensely. He was always a priest, he took advantage of every opportunity to impart a proper message …”

Father O’Leary suffered a stroke while on vacation in 1958, necessitating the end of his classroom teaching. He died on March 2, 1964 in Saint Thomas Monastery, Villanova. The Funeral Mass was celebrated at Saint Thomas of Villanova Church by Prior Provincial James Donnellon, O.S.A. followed by burial in the Villanova community cemetery.  

Michael V. O'Halloran, O.S.A.

1934 – 1975 (June 17)

Michael Vincent O'Halloran, son of Michael O’Halloran and Delia Walsh, was born on Staten Island on July 9, 1934, and was baptized there at Our Mother of Good Counsel Church on July 29th. Following his early education, he attended Saint Peter’s High School, Staten Island, from 1949 to 1953, and the following year entered Augustinian Academy as a post graduate postulant. He was received into the Novitiate as a clerical novice in 1955. Michael professed simple vows on September 10, 1956 and, shortly thereafter, became ill with a blood disease that was to plague him for the rest of his short life. After major surgery in 1957, he was considered cured, only to have the disease recur some few years later. 

In 1959 he requested and received permission to change from the clerical state to the lay brotherhood and was granted a dispensation from the Congregation of Religious to make a second novitiate of only six months. He was professed on September 20, 1959 and made Solemn Profession on September 20, 1962

Brother Michael trained as a Practical Nurse and was assigned to the Villanova Monastery to care for the retired and infirm of the Province. Although in poor health himself, he cared for the friars with great gentleness, zeal and devotion.

The final years of his life were spent in great suffering, and he was forced to be hospitalized for long periods of time. He spent the greater part of the last two years of his life in Bryn Mawr Hospital or the Clinical Center of the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland.

Brother Michael died in Bryn Mawr Hospital on Tuesday, June 17, 1975 at the age of 41. Following a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, June 20th, at Saint Mary’s Hall Seminary Chapel, he was buried in the Saint Mary's Hall Cemetery, Villanova. His body was later transferred to Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, PA. 
 

Michael M. O'Farrell, O.S.A.

1942 – 1881 (August 28)

Michael Mary O'Farrell, son of Michael O’Farrell and Mary McHale, was born in Castlebar, Ireland, on September 27, 1842. He immigrated to the United States in 1865 and obtained a teaching position as professor of mathematics at Villanova College, having taught the same subject previously in Ireland. He entered the novitiate at Villanova, on January 5, 1866, and professed simple vows on January 19, 1867. He was solemnly professed on January 20, 1870. Following theological studies at Villanova, he was ordained to the priesthood at Saint Augustine Church, Philadelphia, on January 20, 1870, by Bishop Thomas A. Becker, the first bishop of Wilmington, Deleware.

Father O’Farrell was first stationed at Villanova where he was Vice-President of the College and Prefect of Discipline until 1876. For a part of this time he was also a member of the teaching faculty. In 1876 he was assigned to serve on the missions of New York at Lansingburg, and Hoosick Falls, and Carthage. He died at Princetown, New York, on August 28, 1881 at the age of 39. His Funeral Mass was offered on Wednesday, August 31st, after which Father O’Farrell was buried in the Community Cemetery at Villanova.
 

John P. O'Dwyer, O.S.A.

1814 – 1850 (May 24)

John Possidius O'Dwyer was born in Callan, County Kilkenny, Ireland about 1814. After completing his preliminary education at the college in Kilkenny in 1835, he entered the novitiate at Grantstown, County Wexford, in 1836. After his profession of vows, he was sent to Italy to continue his studies in Perugia, after which he was ordained in Italy in December, 1838. 

In the late summer of 1840, Father O'Dwyer immigrated to the United States at the request of Father Patrick Moriarty. He served first at Saint Augustine's in Philadelphia, PA. Later he became seriously ill and returned to Ireland at the end of 1842 where he convalesced in Pesaro on the Italian Adriatic Sea. He returned to the United States in the summer of 1843, bringing with him Father Francis Ashe and cleric William Harnett. On August 7, 1843, Father O'Dwyer formally took possession of Villanova and opened the first classes in the Rudolph farmhouse. On August 28 of the same year, he offered the first Mass, blessed the new foundation and placed it under the patronage of Saint Thomas of Villanova. Acting as President of the new college and Professor of Latin and Greek, he enrolled seven students on September 17, 1843 to begin the first college year. 

Father O'Dwyer established the first community life at Villanova, and in 1849, opened the first new building for students. In 1847, he was appointed Commissary-General to succeed Father Moriarty. And in 1848 he erected the college railroad station. After fire destroyed Saint Augustine's Church in 1844, he built the "Lady of Consolation Chapel" to supply service for the faithful. Father O'Dwyer attended the 7th Provincial Council of Baltimore in May, 1849, and was unanimously chosen as the first candidate on the terna for the new Episcopal See of Savannah, Georgia. When he became seriously ill late in 1849, and before the election took place, he was hospitalized at Mount Hope, Baltimore, and his name was removed from the terna.

During his last illness, John Neumann, C. SS. R. later bishop of Philadelphia, administered to his spiritual needs, including the last rites. Father O'Dwyer died on May 24, 1850 at the age of 36. He is buried in the vault of Saint Augustine's in Philadelphia. O'Dwyer Hall, a student dormitory at Villanova University, is named in his honor.

In 1893, at the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Villanova College, J. Henry Magee, a member of the first group of students to enroll at Villanova, offered this testimony on behalf of Father O’Dwyer.

“He was, indeed, a rare character, earnest and energetic in all his undertakings, profound in his faith and convictions, and most sympathetic towards the sufferings and misfortunes of others. During the period of the riots he displayed the highest courage and immediately set about rebuilding the burnt church, or at least, a small chapel in which the congregation might worship until a new church could be built.” 

Bernard J. O'Dowd, O.S.A.

1931 – 2011 (November 27)

Bernard Joseph O'Dowd was born on August 23, 1931, in West Brighton, Staten Island, New York, the son of Bernard Denis O’Dowd and Mary Ellen Tallon. He had two sisters, Angela and Mary Ellen and two brothers, Thomas and John. He was baptized on September 6, 1931, at Sacred Heart Church, Staten Island, and attended Sacred Heart Parish School and, from 1945 to 1949, Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, the last year of which he was a postulant. He was received as a novice on September 9, 1949, and after a year at Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg, New York, professed simple vows on September 10, 1950. He then attended Villanova University, professed solemn vows on September 10, 1953, and received a BA in Philosophy in 1954. He pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, DC, and was ordained to the priesthood on February 8, 1958, at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC, by Bishop John McNamara.

Father O’Dowd, or Father Bernie as he was known within the community, was assigned to teach at Msgr. Bonner High School, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, in 1958. From 1960 to 1962 he served in parochial ministry at Our Mother of Consolation Parish, Chestnut Hill, PA, St. Augustine Parish and St. Laurence O'Toole Parish in Lawrence, Massachusetts. From 1962 to 1966 he was assigned to St. John of Sahagun Friary and taught at Archbishop Carroll High School, Washington, DC. From 1966 to 1968, he taught at Saint Nicholas of Tolentine High School, Bronx, New York. From 1968 to 1971 he was military chaplain in the United States Army in Vietnam. In 1971 he was assigned to Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, Staten Island, returned to Msgr. Bonner High School in 1973, and in 1974, became a member of the community at St. Laurence O'Toole Parish, Lawrence, while serving as chaplain at the Lawrence General Hospital, until 1975. Father O’Dowd subsequently ministered at St. Mary Parish, Waterford, New York, at St. Thomas of Villanova Parish, Rosemont, Pennsylvania, and at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, Atlantic City, New Jersey. In 1996, he was assigned to Saint Thomas Monastery, Villanova.

Father O’Dowd suffered from kidney disease in his later years, to such a degree that a transplant donor was sought, but never found. Instead, a long period of dialysis treatment followed, but in an unusual turn of events, his condition improved and the treatments were able to be discontinued.
 
 After a fall in the monastery, Father Bernie was rushed to Bryn Mawr Hospital where he died on Sunday morning, November 27, 2011.

Patrick H. O'Donnell, O.S.A.

1857 – 1912 (September 24)

Patrick Hugh Joseph O'Donnell was born on Arran Island, Donegal, Ireland, on March 7, 1857, to Hugh and Grace O’Donnell. He taught for some years in Ireland before entering the novitiate at Villanova, Pennsylvania, on February 25, 1886. He pronounced simple vows on February 26, 1887, and was solemnly professed with a dispensation on June 11, 1889. He was ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Ryan four days later, on June 15, 1889, in the Cathedral in Philadelphia.

From 1889 to 1893, Father O'Donnell taught at Villanova and, at the same time, was in charge of the mission at Saint Denis in Ardmore, Pa. In 1893, he was assigned to Saint Augustine, Lansingburgh, N.Y., and in 1898 to and Saint Joseph, Greenwich, N.Y, before returning to Lansinghburgh the following year. In 1906 he was stationed in Havana, Cuba, and in 1907 in Lawrence, MA. at Saint Mary’s Parish. In 1911, Father O’Donnell was assigned to Saint James Parish, Carthage, N.Y.

Father O'Donnell died in Philadelphia's Saint Joseph's Hospital of throat cancer on September 24, 1912 at the age of 55. He is buried in the Community Cemetery at Villanova.
 

Nicholas O'Donnell, O.S.A.

1802 – 1863 (July 1)

Nicholas O'Donnell was born near Cahir, County Tipperary, Ireland, to Nicholas O’Donnell and Joanna Condon, in December, 1802. One of his two brothers, William, also became an Augustinian. Nicholas was received as a novice on December 17, 1823, at Santa Maria del Popolo, Rome, Italy, and made his solemn profession on December 18, 1824. He studied for the priesthood at Santa Maria in Posterula, the Roman house of the Irish Province, and was ordained, with a dispensation because of his age, at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, Rome, in September, 1828.

That same year, the Prior General sent Father Nicholas and his brother, Father William, to the United States. They arrived in November and were warmly welcomed by Father Michael Hurley at Saint Augustine's in Philadelphia. Father Nicholas began to care for the Catholics in Ardmore, Belle Aire, Norristown, Manayunk and areas west of the city. As a young priest, he edited the newly established "Catholic Herald," for three years, under the direction of Bishop Kenrick. Later, in 1842, he directed the "Catholic Register" of New York.

Father O'Donnell was Rector of Saint Paul's Church in Brooklyn, New York, from 1839 to 1846. In that latter year, he went to Rome, and four years later was sent by the Prior General to open a mission at Bristol, England. In 1858, Father O'Donnell returned to the United States and again served in Brooklyn. At his request, the Bishop gave our Order the charge of the two missions at Lansingburg and Waterford in New York.

From that time until his death, Father O'Donnell was in charge of Saint Patrick's at Verplank Point in Westchester County, New York. He died there on July 1, 1863 at the age of 61, and was buried there beside the door of the Church.
 

Michael J. O'Donnell, O.S.A.

1905 – 1969 (March 6)

Michael Joseph O'Donnell, son of Michael J. O'Donnell and Mary Morley, was born on February 7, 1905, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was baptized in Saint Columba Church there, and received his early education at that parish school. When his family moved to Atlantic City, Michael continued his studies at Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Elementary School. In September, 1919, he entered Villanova Preparatory School where, upon graduation, he was awarded the General Excellence Medal. On June 21, 1923, he was accepted as a novice at Villanova, professed simple vows on June 22, 1924, and solemn vows three years later. In June 1927, he received a B.A. degree from Villanova College and then studied theology at Augustinian College in Washington, D.C., receiving an M.A. in June, 1931 from The Catholic University. On June 10, 1930, he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop John M. McNamara, at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

In 1931, Father O'Donnell was assigned to Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, New York, where he taught Greek and Algebra. On July 6, 1932, he was transferred to Saint Mary's Hall, Villanova, where he taught English to the Augustinian formation students and served as community treasurer. From 1938 to 1941, he assumed an additional assignment as Director of the Augustinian Seminary Guild. He worked in Villanova's Turf & Tinsel Club, was moderator of Shamokinaki, a fund raiser for the Augustinian Missions, and served as archivist for Villanova University. In July, 1942, Father O'Donnell became a military chaplain, with his first assignment at the Coast Guard Training Station, Manhattan Beach, N.Y. and later, was sent to the Pacific as a Navy "Sea Bee." He served as a Navy Chaplain, morale officer, librarian and recreation officer until January 19, 1946, when he was discharged with the rank of lieutenant commander, and resumed teaching at Villanova.

A heart attack curtailed Father O'Donnell's teaching, but he managed to compile a history of Villanova's football and basketball statistics under the titles: "Villanova Football: a Statistical History," and, “Basketball - A Statistical History.” Just prior to his death he compiled a history of Villanova's track teams. In his youth he had been given to creative writing. 

In January, 1967, Father O'Donnell was assigned to Saint Augustine Parish, Troy, New York, and the following year was appointed prior of the community. On March 6, 1969, Father O'Donnell died at Saint Mary's Hospital, Troy, at the age of 64. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Augustine Church by Bishop Frederick Hall, a Mill Hill missionary as principal celebrant. Father O'Donnell's body was then brought to the Collegiate Seminary at St. Mary's Hall, Villanova, for a Mass of the Resurrection followed by interment in the Augustinian Plot at Calvary Cemetery, Conshohocken, Pa. 

James O'Donnell, O.S.A.

1806 – 1861 (April 7)

James O'Donnell, son of John O'Donnell and Mary Fitzgibbons, was born on April 13, 1806, at Black Castle, Cashel-Roesgreen, Tipperary, Ireland. Following his primary and secondary education which he completed in 1821, he worked as a clerk in Cashel for the next ten years. On October 26, 1831, he arrived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and on January 1, 1832, he was received into the novitiate at St. Augustine's Church in the city. On December 22, 1832, he received Tonsure and Minor Orders from Bishop Francis P. Kenrick, in the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, in Philadelphia. From 1832 to 1834, James O'Donnell studied theology under the tutelage of Bishop Kenrick, in the newly established St. Charles Seminary. On January 1, 1833, he made his profession of vows. From March 1834 to December 1836, James continued studies in theology at Mount St. Mary's College in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Upon his return to Philadelphia he taught at St. Augustine's School and, on January 13, 1837, was ordained to the priesthood by John Dubois, S.S., third bishop of the diocese of New York.

Upon his ordination, Father O'Donnell was appointed chaplain to Bishop Dubois, who, on June 18, 1837, sent him to the mission of Salina, now Syracuse, New York, which included Baldwinsville, Fulton, Phoenix, and Solon. That same year, he was elected to the corporation of The Brothers of the Order of Hermits. In 1838, he was assigned to St. Augustine parish in Philadelphia, but in July, 1838, Bishop Dubois asked Father James and his cousin, Father Nicholas O'Donnell, to assume charge of the newly erected church of St. Paul, in Brooklyn. While stationed there, Father James served Long Island, an area over 1,000 square miles. In 1846, the Augustinians withdrew from St. Paul's parish.

The first known celebration of Mass, in what is now Nassau County, Long Island, New York, was offered by Father James O'Donnell, in 1840. Father James established the church of St. Monica, in Jamaica, New York and, with his cousin, Nicholas, directed the building of St. Mary's Church in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, which was added to the Augustinian corporation. Other communities Father James visited were, Flatbush, in Brooklyn and Sag Harbor on Long Island.

From 1844 to 1848, Father O'Donnell was stationed at St. Augustine's in Philadelphia and at Villanova, where he was a member of the College's first board of trustees, prefect of studies, and professor of English and history. In 1848, at the request of John B. Fitzpatrick, bishop of the Boston Diocese, Father O'Donnell established St. Mary's Parish in Lawrence, Massachusetts, became its first pastor and built the first church, a wooden structure. Then, in 1851, he built a stone church over and around the original building. In 1852, he founded St. Augustine Parish in Andover, Massachusetts.

On April 7, 1861, Father O'Donnell, at the age of 55, died at St. Mary's in Lawrence. Bishop John Fitzpatrick presided at his funeral, after which he was interred in the school yard, but later his body was transferred to St. Mary's Cemetery, in Lawrence. Upon Father O'Donnell's death, part of a letter from one Augustinian to another read, "There is great grief and lamentation through the whole city. He certainly fell in the zenith of his glory and popularity."