Maybe a year before his passing in 2020, I met Fr Raymond Browne in a waiting room in Roscommon Hospital. He was his usual cheerful self. Already into his early 90s, it was obvious that whatever about failing physical health, Fr Browne was as positive in mind and spirit as ever.
Although well acquainted with the priest’s incredible energy and drive, I don’t think I asked Fr Browne if he and his community volunteers were working on any particular project at the time… he volunteered the information!
“Paul, our next project is an astroturf pitch” he declared – quite matter of factly.
Sure enough, some months later that project – like so many before it – was realised. In March of 2020, the new facility was officially opened, and a delighted and proud Fr Browne was present. Later in 2020, his remarkable journey on this earth ended. He was, as I wrote at the time, a one-off, a man who made an enormous contribution to pastoral and community life in County Roscommon over several decades.
Given the wonderful legacy Fr Browne left, it is so fitting that the close-knit community in Kilbride parish have honoured him by erecting a statue in his honour.
At its unveiling last Sunday, Bishop Kevin Doran led tributes to Fr Browne, noting his care for the sick and elderly, support of young people, and phenomenal dedication to community projects. Members of Fr Browne’s family, parishioners and friends from near and afar attended.
Not having been present on Sunday (Seamus Duke was there for the People), I called out on Wednesday to have a look at the statue. After chatting to one or two of the friendly locals, I ran into Bernie Kearney, another community giant in that area. How apt that I should just happen to meet Bernie on the day.
We viewed the statue together, and agreed that it is a fine piece of work. Then we chatted about the modest man it honours. Bernie and so many parishioners in Kilbride spent so many great times with their beloved priest.
Prior to leaving, I asked Bernie to stand in for a photo with his old friend. Unsurprisingly, we touched on local politics before I drove off!
A final thought. On the occasion of the astroturf pitch opening, Fr Browne quoted two men he particularly admired: Pope John Paul II and Dermot Earley.
Fr Browne’s message that day was: ‘Love your parish. Become involved in the life of your community. Give your time. Follow this maxim: ‘Give back to my community’’.
Few people have more nobly (and humbly) lived by such motivations as Fr Raymond Browne has. This statue will remind current generations – and inform future ones – of his wonderful, selfless work, his inspirational life and times, and of a unique legacy of service and goodness.
May he rest in peace – and may this statue stand proud.
