Paulist Father Richard Colgan, 68, died of complications from COVID-19 at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. on Monday, May 25. A former pastor at St. Peter’s Church on Bathurst St., Father Colgan served as a director of novices at the Paulist Fathers’ formation house of studies in Washington D.C.

“With great sadness, we announce that our brother, Paulist Fr. Richard Colgan, has entered eternal life,” the Paulist Fathers’ statement reads. “We pray that Fr. Rich, and all those around the world who have died from COVID-19, are now in God’s warm embrace.”

Not long before Fr. Rich left Toronto in 2008, he was diagnosed with cancer and recieved treatment. The cancer returned while he was in Washington D.C., making his immunity very low. 

“When COVID-19 got into the seminary, I think some of the young men who are training to be priests there got it but it wasn’t the same for them. So, Fr. Rich fairly quickly went into the hospital and he went on the ventilator. He was on the ventilator for about a week and I don’t know whether he had pre-planned it, I’m sure he had, but at a certain point the decision was made to turn off the ventilator,” said Heather McClory, coordinator of Toronto Paulist Associates.

Colgan served the Paulist community for 46 years and as a priest for 41 years.

“He was such a kind and patient and wise man,” said McClory. “You could tell by his demeanor that he loved being a priest. And he really was very giving and kind, very good advice, very patient and calm.”

—Tanya Ielyseieva, Gleaner News