February 18, 2022
Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez released the following statement on the sudden passing of Auxiliary Bishop David O’Connell today:
“I am very sad this afternoon to report that our beloved Auxiliary Bishop David O’Connell has passed away unexpectedly. It is a shock and I have no words to express my sadness.
“As a priest and later a bishop here in Los Angeles for more than forty-five years, Bishop Dave was a man of deep prayer who had a great love for Our Blessed Mother. He was a peacemaker with a heart for the poor and the immigrant, and a passion for building a community where the sanctity and dignity of every human life was honored and protected.
“He was also a good friend, and I will miss him greatly. I know we all will. Please join me in praying for Bishop Dave and for his family in Ireland. May Our Lady of Guadalupe wrap him in the mantle of her love, and may the angels lead him into paradise, and may he rest in peace.”
OLG had the privilege to be in Bishop Dave’s presence many times as he visited our school and celebrated mass for our community. He will be dearly missed but we will cherish all the memories left behind. On behalf of the OLG faculty and staff, I ask that you join us in prayer for the eternal repose of his soul and may his family and loved ones feel God’s love, power and peace during this difficult time. 🙏💗✝️