Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Fr. Patrick ‘Paddy’ Hagan
This afternoon, parishioners of St. Kizito Parish gathered for a memorial Mass to remember the life of the late Fr. Patrick “Paddy” Hagan, who passed away last month in Ireland. Fr. Hagan served the parish for 21 years before his return home due to deteriorating eyesight.
In his homily, Archbishop of Lilongwe, Most Rev. George Desmon Tambala, shared that he knew Fr. Hagan from their time in the Association of Men Religious in Malawi (AMRIM). He spoke of Fr. Paddy as a man of few words, whose quiet wisdom was gained from years of rich experience.
Drawing on the Gospel of the Good Shepherd, the Archbishop commended Fr. Paddy for his years of service in Malawi. He noted that Fr. Paddy was a good shepherd who, despite the challenges he may have faced in his ministry, never abandoned his calling nor his flock.
Parish Priest Fr. Martin Mulholland expressed his gratitude to the Archbishop for initiating the Mass to celebrate Fr. Paddy’s life. He also thanked all the priests and parishioners who attended.
A Life of Service in Malawi
Fr. Paddy’s dedicated service in Malawi spanned decades and included a number of key roles:
1985: Muona Parish, Chikwawa
1989: St. Peter’s Parish, Zomba
1990: Spiritual Director at Kachebere Seminary, where he helped shape the next generation of priests.
1991-2003: Regional Leader for Central and Southern Africa, a significant leadership role in which he guided the Society’s mission across the region for twelve years.
2003-2012: Priest at St. Kizito Parish, Chigoneka.
Following the Memorial Mass, the archbishop, priests, and parishioners shared a moment of fellowship over tea.
More pictures on our Facebook page.
