On August 22nd, Fr Gerald O'Collins SJ passed away in Melbourne at the age of 93. A Jesuit for 74 years and a priest for 61 years, Fr. O'Collins was an internationally renowned theologian. Fr O'Collins was a much-loved professor at the Gregorian, where he taught theological disciplines for 33 years, especially Christology and Theology of Religions. He also served as Dean of the Faculty, until reaching the rank of emeritus in 2006. Fr O'Collins was also a prolific author: he published over 70 volumes and countless specialist articles.
Upon the news of his death, numerous memories and testimonies appeared that underline the qualities of communicator and authentic pastor that Fr O'Collins also instilled in academic life. We highlight some of them:
- Vale, Fr Gerald O’Collins SJ AC - The reverse interview (Australian Jesuits)
- On the Death of Fr Gerald O’Collins SJ (Archdiocese of Brisbane)
- Vale Rev Prof Gerald (Gerry) O’Collins SJ AC (Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne)
- ‘If we don’t get Jesus right, we won’t get the church right’: The life and teaching of Gerald O’Collins, S.J. (America Magazine)
- Fr Gerald O’Collins remembered as a mentor and friend by many, Archbishop Coleridge says (The Catholic Leader)
- Bishops conference remembers Fr Gerald O’Collins SJ (ACBC Media Blog)
- Vale Reverend Professor Gerald Glynn O’Collins SJ AC (University of Divinity)
- Farewell to a theologian whose mind and heart alike were always trained on Christ (Crux)
The funeral will take place on September 4, at St Patrick's Cathedral in East Melbourne.