Daniel O'Leary A renowned priest, author and teacher, said to have been an “inspiration to countless people”, has died this week.
Kerry-born Fr Daniel O’Leary (82) was the author of 12 books and was a regular contributor to the Irish Furrow and The Tablet.
He studied for the priesthood at All Hallows’ College in Dublin and was ordained there before leaving for the Diocese of Leeds in June, 1960.
After previous studies in London and an appointment at St Mary’s Church in Sheffield he went on to study full time in St Mary’s College, Strawberry Hill in London where he shortly joined the college’s academic staff.
He taught theology and religious studies there for 20 years, before becoming chair of the Religious Studies Department.
Upon returning to his diocese he served in several parishes until retirement.
According to the Diocese of Leeds: “He was renowned as a retreat giver to clergy, parishes and educationalists both in this country and abroad. Over many years his theology and spirituality were an inspiration to countless people who encountered him in person or through his writings and he will be greatly missed.”