Remembering Fr. O’Sullivan
St. Irenaeus’ former Pastor, Father Dan O’Sullivan, was much more than our spiritual leader. He truly was a man of the people, whether raking leaves with parishioners or trying to fix a boiler, or giving a caller at the door money from his own pocket.
He loved being with the SPRED (Special Religious Education) friends, celebrating a liturgy with them, or greeting them in church. PADS found him making sandwiches and working a shift through the night. He supported and was a member of the Parish Pastoral Council and was grateful for the 200 or more volunteers of the parish ministries.
An advocate for the poor, homeless, down trodden and hungry, Father set an example for the parish by encouraging all of us to give from our hearts. Isn’t this why Jesus came among us?
Father O’Sullivan, who died Monday, Dec. 15, was also recognized by the Village of Park Forest’s Historical Society for his work in the community.
He loved his parish family and we loved him. He will be missed. In the words of our patron, Saint Irenaeus, "Humankind fully alive is God truly glorified.’"
Deanna Martin
Parishioner and Lay Minister
St. Irenaeus Church, Park Forest
