Fr Desmond Broderick RIP

Father Desmond Broderick. Image: Archdiocese of Glasgow Facebook page.

The Archdiocese of Glasgow has announced the death of Fr Desmond Broderick, who was 'a hugely popular pastor.'

Fr Broderick was born in Glasgow in 1924 and educated at St Conval's Primary School and Holyrood Secondary School, and at St Mary's College, Blairs. He was called up for army service during World War II.

Following army service, Fr Broderick resumed his seminary training and was ordained in 1952. Among other positions, Fr Broderick served twice as Assistant Priest at St Andrew's Cathedral (in 1971-1972 and 1989-1990).

In October 1990, Fr Broderick retired to Nazareth House. He continued to be active in parishes throughout the diocese. He died only weeks before his one hundredth birthday.

The archdiocese has written that Fr Broderick's 'simple and profound devotion to Our Lady, his infectious smile and his gentle manner won the hearts of all who came into contact with him.'

Members of the public who knew and loved Fr Broderick have added their own tributes to the Archdiocese of Glasgow's Facebook page.

Karen Smith has written, 'Fr Broderick was an exceptional priest. There will never be another like him. His holiness and humility radiated out of him.'

Tom Docherty has written, 'One of the kindest priests I've ever known and a wonderful loving person.'

Pauline Dempsey has written, 'What a gentle, loving, holy soul.'

James Hinchcliffe has written, 'I will always remember his deep spirituality, devotion to the Blessed Mother and his unique way of sharing The Faith, a true spiritual father.'

Padre Pio Events Scotland has written, 'A truly wonderful man. A truly wonderful priest. He gave everything to the service of God and to the people of God.'

The Reception of Fr Broderick's remains into St Andrew's Cathedral, Glasgow, will take place on Wednesday 1st May at 6.30pm.

The Funeral Mass will take place at the Cathedral on Thursday 2nd May at 1pm.

The Cathedral has a livestream of its services on its website: www.cathedralg1.org/watch-live.html

The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on YouTube by Sancta Familia Media: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRTR2Ilc_Kg