WelCom November 2024
Michael Fitzsimons
Fr Denis O’Hagan sm made a life’s work out of companionship and compassion, said Fr Tim Duckworth sm in his homily at the Requiem Mass for Denis in August.
‘Denis loved being a priest. However, I was looking for clothes to bury him in and couldn’t find one black garment. It was hard enough to find one formal thing at all. Denis was not big into lauding his priesthood over others. His ministry was one of teaching by example and of reconciliation and healing. Denis was the epitome of not being affected by clericalism.’
Fr Duckworth paid tribute to his authentic human qualities that inspired so many. ‘Denis was honest and forthright and strong, as well as gentle and forgiving.’
The eulogy at the funeral, held at St Mary of the Angels, was given by Denis’ nephew, Tim Gordon who outlined the family history. Denis was the youngest of six children, coming from Polish and Irish stock. He was ordained in 1969 and taught for 10 years at St Patrick’s College Wellington. This was followed by seven years at Chanel College, Samoa, which he later said were the happiest and most formative years of his ministry.
Back in New Zealand Denis worked at Hato Pāora College and in the parish of Feilding. He then moved into administration and in time was elected Provincial of the Society of Mary. His time as Provincial saw a ‘big push into youth ministry with lay partners, and more open and honest community life,’ said Tim.
‘He met every challenge that arose, and there were some biggies, during that time with his hallmark compassion and authenticity.’
Denis was involved with many ministries when he stepped down from being Provincial.
Said Tim: ‘This morning Denis’ many and varied worlds collide – he used the word family to describe the various groups he was part of, be he your spiritual director, a team member of the Compassion Soup Kitchen, your chaplain, your mentor, your friend, your brother, your uncle – he moved seamlessly between us all.’