The TransCanada Province of the Spiritans remembers one of its
beloved confreres, Fr. John Sheehy, CSSp. A native of Skibbereen, Co.
Cork, Ireland, John made his first vows with the Spiritans on Oct.
2nd, 1938 and three years later to the day made perpetual vows. He
was ordained to the priesthood on July 15th, 1945 and appointed to
Nigeria where he served for over twenty years. In 1969, Fr. John was
assigned to St. Thomas Parish in Old Bridge, New Jersey. For the rest
of his life he maintained friendships there. In 1971 the TransCanada
Province of the Spiritans invited Fr. John to minister here in
Ontario. He served at St. Joseph's Parish in Port Elgin twice,
1971-1974 (Associate Pastor) and 1977-1978 (Pastor). It was at this
parish too that Fr. John chose to retire in 1994 until ill health
forced him to move to Laval House in Toronto. Fr. John is also
remembered fondly by the people of St. Joseph's Hospital in Hamilton,
Ontario, where he served as chaplain for many years from 1974 - 1977
and again from 1978 - 1994. John's last few years were marked by
declining health and near total loss of eyesight. Through it all
however, he maintained a gentle spirit, a kindness and a warm welcome
for all visitors. On Friday March 19th, 2004, the Feast of St.
Joseph, patron of Canada and patron of a happy death, John slipped
quietly from this life.
Welcome
to the site of the TransCanada Province of the Spiritans. We are a
Roman Catholic Religious Congregation of over three thousand members,
founded in 1703. Our missions are spread worldwide. While we may be
found involved in many diverse ministries, we have dedicated
ourselves to working with the poor and in those situations where the
Church has difficulty in finding ministers. We hope you enjoy your
visit to our site and that while browsing you will keep us in your
prayers. May God bless you.
