Father Michael O’Connell:
A Priest of Integrity
Father Michael O’Connell is the pastor at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis, MN. In addition, he ministers to an inner city Hispanic parish.
Father O’Connell's nominators report that he has created a safe and welcoming atmosphere which is evidence by tremendous growth in the parish (1400 families in 1991 to 5,400 today!). He helps organize a huge neighborhood Basilica Block Party held each summer which fosters great community building and evangelization. He is noted for his close relationship with the Jewish community, and for his commitment to justice.
The heart of Father O’Connell’s nomination rests on his past role as moderator of the Curia (Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis). In 1984, Father Mike was faced with the first case of clergy abuse that was publicized in the newspapers. It was the beginning of a crash course in intervention, victim advocacy and education for Father Mike and many others in his position around the country. Through his efforts, the archdiocese was one of the first to have a policy on education of all church leaders as well as clear steps for reporting any abuse. (Had other dioceses moved as quickly and openly perhaps the abuse would have been mitigated much sooner than it was).
As his nominators note, "The nomination of Fr. Michael O'Connell is both symbolic and meaningful for all priests who had to refocus their ministry to deal with the burgeoning abuse crisis."
The Priest Support Working Group honors selected clergy with a “Priest of Integrity” award for their noted courage and compassion in their ministry. But there are many untold stories of priests doing heroic service in their communities. We hope that highlighting the ones we have come to know will give us examples to follow and build hope in the often-unseen goodness that abounds.
