Dear Editor, It was with great sadness that the Padre Pio prayer groups noted the passing this year of the late Fr Michael Duggan CSSp of Whitestown, Kilmacthomas, Co Waterford
Fr Michael became involved in the early years of the formation of the Irish prayer groups and was coordinator of the Padre Pio Prayer Groups for the Archdiocese of Dublin for almost 40 years.
He made an outstanding contribution as one of the longest serving members on the World Council of Padre Pio Prayer Groups in San Giovanni, and was spiritual director to five prayer groups, making such an impression on all who had the opportunity to attend one of the Masses which he celebrated.
Fr Michael led continuous pilgrimages to Lourdes and San Giovanni for over 30 years, at times visiting San Giovanni four times a year between meetings and pilgrimages. He became a familiar face to many locals and Irish pilgrims alike, touching many with his gentle and pleasant way.
When most octogenarians would start to take it easy, Fr Michael became more involved with the Divine Mercy movement, serving also as chaplain to the Poor Sisters. His list of work was truly great even in later life, including counselling, home and hospital visiting for the sick and elderly.
Fr Michael was a humble and holy man, and to hear him say Mass was to truly witness a saintly man, a man of God, whose faith in God, prayer and Padre Pio reached far and wide. On a recent pilgrimage to San Giovanni the Irish Group had the great privilege of celebrating Mass at the shrine of St Pio in memory and thanksgiving for this great and spiritual priest.
Our consolation now is knowing he will have had the joy of being greeted by his friend in waiting Padre Pio.
Yours etc.,
Geoff Coughlan,
Walkinstown, Dublin 12.