June 17, 2010

By Rick Winterson

  Msgr. Thomas J. McDonnell (“Father Tom”) died a year ago.  He left an indelible mark on South Boston in many ways, including a host of friends.  Many of them attended his Memorial Mass last Sunday afternoon at St. Monica/St. Augustine Church.  Among these friends were several of the ones he treasured most – the children who were members of the Simon of Cyrene Society – which he co-founded with Sr. Peggy Youngclaus, SND.

  Frank Kelley, the mainstay of the St. Augustine Food Pantry, was there at the Mass.  He once told the story of how Fr. Tom found out Frank had been a Mess Sergeant and called him, saying in that Tantum Ergo voice of his, “Frank, I need you to give me a hand with something.”  That was in 1983, and Fr. Tom was talking about the three annual holiday dinners – Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.  The rest is history, as they say.

  Fr. Tom was ordained 50 years ago.  He served in South Boston for 26 years, both as a Parochial Vicar and the Pastor of St. Augustine Church.  In addition, he was a prolific writer of books, article, and meditations.  He taught at St. John’s Seminary.  His literary and theological capacity for recall was unmatched.

  But his compassion equalled or perhaps even surpassed his intellect.  He was a friend, a fellow pilgrim, a giver of gifts and hospitality.  He was passionate about social justice; he served on numerous boards and panels.  It was entirely fitting that his Memorial Mass on Sunday closed with a song by the young members of the Simon of Cyrene Society.