Father Gregory J. Brennan,
Photo Courtesy: St. Bonaventure University
Posted on 08/22/2007 7:56:10 AM PDT by NYer
The body of a missing priest from St. Bonaventure University was found Monday night in the Kinzua Dam Reservoir.
Father Greg Brennan vanished over the weekend while boating along the New York-Pennsylvania border. Two priests from St. Bonaventure identified Father Brennan's body.
In a written statement, St. Bonaventure President Sister Margaret Carney said "Our hearts are broken, both personally and professionally here at St. Bonaventure and for all of the people in the Southern Tier whose lives Father Greg touched, especially his parishioners at St. Pacificus and all of the fire company members in Olean and Allegany to whom he dedicated his spirit and energy."
On Monday night, it was an emotional prayer vigil on the campus of St. Bonaventure. Father Greg began working at the university 21 years ago. A few miles away is his parish, St. Pacificus.
As the community prayed for their priest and friend, they told of his accomplishments. They say he was a fire chaplain, volunteer firefighter and active in Boy Scouts.
As for the people at St. Pacificus, the church is on the consolidation list to close, making the final moments as a parish community even harder. "It looks like we lost our friend and pastor," said Elizabeth Sinsabaugh, a friend of Father Greg.
Bishop Edward Kmiec has released a statement, writing: "This is indeed a day of great sadness and loss for the Franciscan Community, Father Brennan's family, the parish community of St. Pacificus where he served with such dedication."
Police are still investigating, but at this time, they do not believe foul play was involved.
Asking your prayers for Fr. Brennan’s family. His mother, Marie, is past Captial District Chapter President of the Columbiettes, the woman’s auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus. Thank you!
Prayers sent, RIP.
What a profound loss to the Church and community. Prayers for dear Father Brennan, his family and all who loved him.
RIP
Prayers for the family.
May God Bless you and your family Fr. Greg. And, may God bless the entire Bonaventure family wherever we may be.
Prayers for Fr. Brennan, his family, his friends and his colleagues.
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