17-01 2021 18:57
wrote:
A tribute to Fr Michael Kelly, S.J –
One of my dearest friends and one of the most important people in my life
A little piece of my heart broke on hearing of Fr Michael’s passing on Friday last. He was one of my dearest friends and became one of the most important people in my life throughout the 17 years that I knew him. He personified goodness and had a tremendous capacity for love and kindness. He was a wonderful communicator. He spent his live giving, caring and fighting for the rights of those less fortunate.
On seeing the impact of HIV on the people of his beloved adopted country, Zambia, Michael applied his sharp intellect and strong voice in galvanising international attention and support for those most vulnerable and affected – those whose voice is often not heard. He was a feminist at heart – I loved him for that - and he stood up and spoke out for the rights of women and girls – at times treading a fine line and hoping he would not get into trouble with higher authorities! He was able to navigate complex situations with sincere and deep compassion. I was so proud to share and benefit from his work. His legacy will live on in the many people he inspired throughout the world.
While Micheal deserved and was very proud to receive every accolade, award and tribute he received throughout his life he never looked for these – but for what they meant to the people he represented and cared for. He was the most humble of beings.
I – along with many others - will miss him terribly. I am though so fortunate to have had such an amazing man in my life – I learned so much from him and benefited hugely from his wonderful being. I draw comfort from the memories of special times shared with him. He will live on in our hearts and memories and his legacy will be felt for years to come. Deepest condolences to all his wonderful family and friends. May his beautiful soul rest in God’s peace. While the world shines a little less bright we know that someone as loved as Fr Michael is never lost.
17-01 2021 18:57
wrote:
A tribute to Fr Michael Kelly, S.J –
One of my dearest friends and one of the most important people in my life
A little piece of my heart broke on hearing of Fr Michael’s passing on Friday last. He was one of my dearest friends and became one of the most important people in my life throughout the 17 years that I knew him. He personified goodness and had a tremendous capacity for love and kindness. He was a wonderful communicator. He spent his live giving, caring and fighting for the rights of those less fortunate.
On seeing the impact of HIV on the people of his beloved adopted country, Zambia, Michael applied his sharp intellect and strong voice in galvanising international attention and support for those most vulnerable and affected – those whose voice is often not heard. He was a feminist at heart – I loved him for that - and he stood up and spoke out for the rights of women and girls – at times treading a fine line and hoping he would not get into trouble with higher authorities! He was able to navigate complex situations with sincere and deep compassion. I was so proud to share and benefit from his work. His legacy will live on in the many people he inspired throughout the world.
While Micheal deserved and was very proud to receive every accolade, award and tribute he received throughout his life he never looked for these – but for what they meant to the people he represented and cared for. He was the most humble of beings.
I – along with many others - will miss him terribly. I am though so fortunate to have had such an amazing man in my life – I learned so much from him and benefited hugely from his wonderful being. I draw comfort from the memories of special times shared with him. He will live on in our hearts and memories and his legacy will be felt for years to come. Deepest condolences to all his wonderful family and friends. May his beautiful soul rest in God’s peace. While the world shines a little less bright we know that someone as loved as Fr Michael is never lost.
