Fr. Mark Whelehan, a Passionist priest, has passed away at age 97.
He died on February 29 in the Community Hospital in Stanhope, where he received the Sacrament of the Sick and the Commendation of the dying prayers.
Born in Kilbeggan, County Westmeath, Ireland, on May 8, 1926, Fr. Whelehan was surrounded by his niece and members of the Passionist Community from Minsteracres.
Fr. Whelehan started his religious life at Blythe Hall in Ormskirk, Lancashire during the later part of World War II, and onward to Broadway, Worcestershire, where he never struggled due to the rural setting and post-war provisions.
He made his vows on November 7, 1947, and after years of studying theology, philosophy and “sacred eloquence” (preaching), he was ordained in Highgate, London, on February 27, 1954.
As roles shifted over the years, his efforts focused on retreats and maintaining Minsteracres’ relevance, taking particular joy in operating the local shop.
Adhering to a prayer schedule until his final days, his absence from the chapel was as noticeable as the sun failing to rise.
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