Father Camillus Carter of St. Paul of the Cross
Father Camillus o St. Paul o the Cross died at St. Mary’s Retreat, Harbourne, a little before noon on the feast of the Immaculate Conception of Our Blessed Lady. During the night preceding his death he frequently appealed to Mary for help, and less than half an hour before the end he was making fervent ejaculations and. answering the ritual prayers for “Visitation of the Sick”. Father Camillus had been in failing health for some years, but continued his daily Mass until nearly the end of November. On December 6th the doctor advised the administration of the Last Sacraments, which the dying priest received with full consciousness and edifying fervour. Most peacefully without the slightest struggle, he died while the prayers for the departing soul were being recited by the community.
Father Camillus had lived for over half a century as a Passionist, having been professed at Broadway on 6th August, 1867. He was born in Dublin on 9th August, 1844. his secular name being Henry Carter. His name stood seventh in the priests of the Anglo/Hibernian Province of the Congregation. In earlier days he had laboured much and effectively on the missions, and as long as health permitted he was eagerly to the fore in whatever work came his way. His genial manner made his a general favourite. Both clergy and laity sought him in the tribunal of penance – a work of grace and mercy in which he took a part almost to the last days of his life..
The funeral took place on December 11th when a Solemn Requiem Mass was sung at 11 o’clock at St. Mary’s, the remains being carried afterward to the little graveyard attached to the retreat and laid with several of his brothers who went before him. There were present besides the community of St. Mary’s, V. Rev. Fr. Egwin C.P., of Broadway (former Rector of St. Mary’s) also Rev. Fathers Hamill (Bearwood), Wright (Small Heath), James O’Hanlon (Northfields) and McNamara. In the large congregation were the Little Sisters of the Poor and Sisters of Mercy. Dr.McArdle was also present. The paths to the grave were lined by the children who sang appropriate hymns.
Antoninus of the Sacred Heart,
Rector.