Edinburgh shocked at sudden death of Monsignor David Gemmell

Following the sudden death of Monsignor David Gemmell yesterday, the following statement has been issued by the Archdiocese of St. Andrews and Edinburgh: "The Cardinal and Priests of the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh were stunned this morning to hear of the sudden death of Right Reverend Monsignor David Gemmell, 54, Administrator of St Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh. He was on a short break in Barcelona to attend a football match, accompanied by his colleague from the Cathedral, Fr Hugh Purcell. After a meal yesterday evening with Fr Purcell he let it be known that he felt unwell but did not need medical help. This morning when he did not appear for breakfast Fr Purcell contacted the hotel authorities and Monsignor Gemmell was found dead in his room. Mgr Gemmell did have a pre-existing history of heart trouble. There are no further details at this time. Reacting to the news Sir Tom Farmer released the following statement: "I was shocked to hear of the death this morning of Mgr David Gemmell. I have know David since he became a priest in Edinburgh in 1978 and watched him grow and develop in the priesthood from a young curate to one of the most senior priests in the Archdiocese and the Administrator of St. Mary's Cathedral. "David was a great priest who loved his chosen role in life, he was always close to and involved in the lives of his immediate family and he cared greatly for all those parishioners he came to know in the many parishes he served feelings which were widely reciprocated. I am pleased I had the opportunity to know him and I mourn his loss." Celtic Football Club said in a statement: "CELTIC Football Club were saddened to hear of the sudden death of Monsignor David Gemmell, Monsignor Gemmell had been visiting the Catalan city along with his colleague, Fr Hugh Purcell, to attend Celtic's UEFA Champions League game with Barcelona in the Nou Camp. A Club spokesperson said: "Clearly, we are stunned by the sudden passing of Monsignor Gemmell, a man who was a great supporter of Celtic and someone well known to the club. The thoughts of everyone at Celtic are with Monsignor Gemmell's relatives, friends, colleagues and congregation at this very difficult time." Source: SCMO