Peter Jennings RIP

Archbishop Longley with Peter Jennings

The well-known Catholic journalist, writer, broadcaster and Press Secretary to the Most Reverend Bernard Longley, Archbishop of Birmingham, died on Tuesday 10 September after a brave battle against illness.

Our prayers and sympathy are with his wife Stella and their children, Sarah – whom Peter proudly recently gave away in marriage and Joseph their son. Besides his other work, Peter was a regular contributor to ICN and wrote his last story for us days before he died.

Archbishop of Birmingham, Archbishop Bernard Longley said: "On Tuesday 10 September I was greatly saddened to hear from his family of the death of Peter Jennings, Press Secretary to the Archdiocese of Birmingham and to myself.

"Peter had fought bravely against illness over recent months and had continued to dedicate himself to his work until the last few days.

"Peter Jennings served as Press Secretary to Archbishop Vincent Nichols and myself during the last ten years with great dedication and loyalty and he will be very much missed. I pray for his eternal happiness and I assure Peter’s wife and family of my prayers for them at this time."

The Archbishop of Westminster, Archbishop Vincent Nichols said: "I am very saddened by the death of Peter Jennings and offer my prayers and condolences to Stella, his wife, and their family. Peter will be sorely missed. Over many, many years he sought to serve the Church well in the challenging world of the media. His great love for the Church was always his key motivation and his determination never faltered.

“I thank God for his steadfast work, which included the Official Records of the Visits of both Blessed John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI to the United Kingdom, fine and lasting tributes to his considerable abilities. May the Lord welcome him with great love and mercy."

We will be publishing a full obituary soon.