Death of a Passionist Jubilarian: Father Albert McKillop, C.P.
Just as he had attained his golden jubilee as a, Passionist, Father Albert McKillop C.P., a member of the Highgate Community, passed away on 8th July in Glasgow, where he had been on a visit. No doubt it was his own wish (and mayhap in response to prayer) that God permitted that he should die in his own land and in his native diocese.
For about fifteen years Father Albert had suffered from partial paralysis, rendering him unable to take part in the active duties of the ministry though, to his great consolation, he was able to celebrate Holy Mass daily almost to the time of his death, which was caused by an attack of bronchial pneumonia.
Born in. Airdrie, Lanarkshire, just over 73 years age, he made his profession as a Passionist on 10th July, 1870, and, on the completion, of his ecclesiastical studies, was ordained by the. late Bishop O’Reilly in Liverpool in 1877. During his fifty years as a Passionist, Father Albert filled many responsible offices in the Order, and whether as Director of Students, Master of Novices, Superior of St. Mungo’s, Glasgow, or Rector of Mount Argus, his life was distinguished by great zeal and devotion to his duties.
His wonderful patience, resignation and cheerfulness, during the many years that he suffered from physical disabilities were a source of edification to his fellow religious, and his many friends and penitents will keenly feel the loss of the venerable Passionist Jubilarian who has gone to his reward.
The Solemn Requiem Mass and funeral took place on Saturday morning the 10th July, at 11.30. Celebrant, Rev. Fr. Cyril, C. P.; Deacon, Rev. Fr. Eustace, C.P.; Subdeacon, Rev. Fr. John Baptist, C.P. His two sisters, cousins and other friends from Airdrie and about 30 priests of the Archdiocese were present on the occasion. Very. Rev. Fr.. Alban, C.P., Rector, delivered the funeral oration. The music of the Mass was beautifully rendered by the following clergy: Fathers Clark, Devine, McCann, and Bradley. Father Denis McBrearty presided at the organ. Very Rev. Father Alban, C.P., officiated at the grave in St. Kentigern’s cemetery.
(Cross, Vol. XI, 1920-21; p. 131)