Diakonia invites our friends to the various events to mourn and say a fond farewell to Paddy Kearney, the pioneer and former leader of our organisation founded by the late Archbishop Denis Hurley. We are deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Paddy who has epitomised grace, humility and “Diakonia” which means “service to people” in Greek.
Paddy spent nearly 30 years heading the work of Diakonia Council of Churches in bringing Christians of various denominations together in partnership for social justice.
There are a number of ways to celebrate Paddy’s life this week:
Thursday, 29 November: A civic memorial service hosted the Premier of KZN Province and the Mayor of eThekwini at 4pm at Durban City Hall.
Friday, 30 November: Sit, Watch and Pray by the coffin from 4pm to 9pm Diakonia Centre (20 Diakonia Avenue).
Saturday, 1 December : Requiem Mass and Commendation celebrated by Cardinal Wilfrid Napier OFM at 2pm at Emmanuel Cathedral.
We encourage members of the clergy to come vested for both memorial events at City Hall and Diakonia Centre.
Please sign Condolence Books with tributes, they are available at our Diakonia offices, Denis Hurley Centre and City Hall.