Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor RIP

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Cardinal Cormac Murphy – O’Connor who has died today aged 85. He was Archbishop of Westminster and leader of the Church in England & Wales from 2000 until 2009.

In a letter sent to Cardinal Vincent Nichols shortly before his death, Cardinal Cormac wrote:

I would be very grateful if you would convey this short message to the priests, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese, of which I as well as you have been privileged to serve as their Bishop.

At this time, the words I pray every night are never far from my thoughts: “Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit”. Please tell them that I am at peace and have no fear of what is to come. I have received many blessings in my life, especially from my family and friends.

I thank God for the many priests, religious and lay faithful who have helped and sustained me in my Episcopal life. Nor should I forget the many Anglican and Free Church colleagues whose friendship I have valued very much.

Above all, as I now commend myself to the loving mercy of God, I ask them all to pray for me as I remember and pray for them.

May he rest in peace.