HONOURING REV. FATHER COFFEY

Otago Witness, Issue 3197, 23 June 1915, Page 3

HONOURING REV. FATHER COFFEY

SILVER JUBILEE OF PRIESTHOOD

The popularity of the Rev. Father Coffey, admin.strator, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, was evidenced by the heartiness ot the socia. held on the 16c 11 in St. Joseph’s Hall in honour of the twenty-fifth anniversary of h.s admission to the priesthood. The stage arrangements were most artistic. The social took the form, of a concert, with the presentat.on ceremony during an interval. His Lordship Bishop Verdon and a number ol Father Coffey’s fellow-priests were present. Mr T. J. Hussey was chairman. Before reading the address to Father Coffey Mr Hussey spoke briefly. He remarked that the Catholic Church wantec strong men, and in Dunedin they had as the administrator of the diocese the strongest —their rev. guest. Standing out as a lasting testimonial to his courage and ability was the Brothers’ School in Dowling street. Not only was Father Coffey honourec. amongst hi£ own congregation, but as a citizen, and there were no clergyman’s views held in more general respect than his._ The chairman then read a highly-eulogistic addikes, which he presented to tho guest of the evening. . Mr Marlow conveyed congratulations from the South Dunedin congregation, • whera Father Coffey ministered before taking up duties at the Cathedral. Ho said the South Diinedin people wished the next 25 years of Father Coffey’s life would_ bo crowned by every blessing, and that his golden jubilee would find him halo and hearty. —(Applause.) On behalf of St. Joseph’s Choir, Mr Poppehvell conveyed congratulations, and made the presentation of a handsome umbrella. Mr Hally presented Father Coffey with a surplice from the A.M.D.G. Guild, Roslyn. Mr P. Carolin made the presentation of a picture on behalf of the Children of Mary. Bishop Verdon spoke of the unity that existed between priests and people, and expressed gratification at the love and reverence shown by the people to thflir priests, who laboured zealously for the welfare of their flock. This silver jubilee was an opportunity to show their esteem for their priest, and that evening their appreciation was shown. Father Coffey deserved it all. He had laboured with success. Ho (tho bishop) prayed that length of days and energy would be given to Father Coffey to celebrate bis golden jubilee. Father Coffey, on rising to reply, was greeted with applause. Looking back over his 25 years, he. could call them pleasant years. Referring to the remarks of the speakers and the testimonies offered, he said ho appreciated the fact that no general appeal had been mg do on bis behalf. He had kept the nnniyersarv to himself; but, before he knew anything of the address and presentation, all had been arranged. He hoped to see the Brothers’ School opened free of debt —as Mr Hussey had predicted. He was encouraged by the generosity of the people to proceed with the school, notwithstanding the fact that the war had broken out before the building was started. He disclaimed so much credit on his behalf regarding the school; his brother priests had worked zealously to aid in its erection. Ho thanked one and all for the kindly references and gifts. Ho paid a tribute to tho generosity and respect shown by the nonCathnlics of Dunedin. _ It had _ been a pleasure to assist in various functions, and a delight to take his part in anything that called for his services He would never forget the kindness shown to him, and Father Coffey resumed his seat, amidst rounds of applause, and the audience sang “For he’s a jolly good follow.” The programme was concluded with tho National Anthem. / On the evening of the 18th the priests and Bishop Verdon assembled and paid tribute to the esteem in which Father Coffey ia

held by thorn. Some appropriate words were ■spoken by the bishop, and Monsignor O’Leary spoke on behalf of tho priests. A laudatory address was read, and the presentation of a handsome cheque was made.