Date of death: 8/26/2018
Saint Meinrad Class: O 1961
PHOENIX (Aug. 26, 2018) ù The Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of the Phoenix, and the Most Rev. Eduardo A. Nevares, Auxiliary Bishop, released the following statement:ôæOur eyes are fixed on the Lord, pleading for His mercy,Æ Psalm 123.We are saddened to learn of the death of Bishop OÆBrien, and we ask the faithful to join us in praying for the eternal repose of his soul. May he know the love and mercy of Our Savior Jesus Christ.Bishop OÆBrien understood the vibrant culture of the Southwest and cherished his opportunities to proclaim the Gospel throughout the community.During his 21 years as Bishop of Phoenix, Arizona was blessed to host two modern-day saints: Pope John Paul II in 1987, and Mother Teresa in 1989. These were both a great gift to the local Church under his leadership.As the population in Arizona continued to increase throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Bishop OÆBrien helped welcome many thousands of Catholics to the Diocese of Phoenix. We will always be grateful for his work in establishing 15 new parishes and six new Catholic schools.Eternal rest grant to him, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.ö