REV. FATHER RIORDAN

Hokitika Guardian, 22 April 1925, Page 3

REV. FATHER RIORDAN

FUNERAL AT ROSS

Tho wave of sorrow and regret that passed over the West Coast when the news went forth ol the death of Rev. Father Kiouian on Saturday afternoon, was exemplified yesterday when the largest gathering of people that bad over assembled in Jt-oxs ‘ township, gathered for the purpose of paying a last tribute ol respect to the memory of the deceased priest, whose funeral took place to Ross cemetery. From all parts of the West Coast came mourners in exceedingly large numbers. 4no district of Okuru in the south and from fieetton in the north and all the various intervening Idealities laid their representatives to do honor to ono who was loved and respected by all who knew him. Practically all the available ears in the dis,'triot .’wore utilised; to carry the mourners to Ross, the assemblage present including two Bishops and twenty-two Priests. The Catholic Church proved all too small l'or the very large assemblage. The celebration of pontifical mass was commenced shortly after II o'clock. The celebrant of the Mass was the Aery Rev. Dean O’Donnell (Ashburton) a relative of the deceased priest. Rev. Father l.een (Rangiora), being Deacon, and Rev Father Seward (Darlield) Sub-Deaeon, while the Rev Dr Kennedy (Hokitika) was Master of Ceremonies. AA'ithin the Sanctuary were their Lordships Bishop Brodie (Christchurch) and Liston (Auckland). while the beautiful Gregorian uiii-ir of the Mass, including the soulstirring “Dies I rue,” was (-limited by a choir of Priests comprising tlu- Rev. Fathers Cooney (Lyttelton). O’llare (Lincoln). O'Connor (Addington). Roche S.M.. (St. Mary’s, Christchurch). Herbert and Herring (Reelton). O’Regan. .Mc.Monagle, .Madden and Houlihan ((■T'eymouth), Fogarty (Alinura), Gilbert. M.S.C. (Sydney). Hanraban (Pnpanui). Malvcv (Hawarden). Healey and Joyce (Christchurch Cathedral). At the conclusion of Mass tin- Blessing of'the Catafalque was given by Bishop Liston. The- procession to the cemetery was then formed, beaded by the altar boys and the clergy, who immediately preceded the Bishops, the next division being that of the Catholic -School children, followed by tin* Ross and Hokitika. Sisters of Mercy. Next came (be children of tlm Ross Slate School. The ceflin was carried by relays of the men parishioners of the district, tbe pall-bearers being members of the 'Hibernian Society. A. very large gathering followed, and also many motor ears. Upon arrival at. tin* cemetery flu- Rl. Rev. Dr Brodie (Bishop of Christchurch) conducted the. service. delivering a most impressive adJrexs to the large assemblage in which a great tribute was paid to the lifework of the deceased.