REV. FR. MARTIN BYRNE, C.P. OBITUARY FROM THE CROSS (VOL IX. No. 1. MAY, 1918) Harborne. – St. Mary’s – Death of Father Martin Byrne, C. P. – With feelings of deep regret we announce the death of Rev, Father Martin Byrne, C. P., which occurred at St. Mary’s Retreat, Harbourne, on 8th April. Father Martin of the Assumption, born at Killevy, Ireland, made his profession as a Passionist in Broadway, Worcestershire, on 27th August, 1,865, and was ordained priest on 29th September, 1869. He was one of the first Passionists associated with the Harbourne foundation in 1870. At a later period he went to the Argentine, and during his visit was offered a foundation at Buenos Aires, from which originated the South American Province of the Passionists. After his return home he spent a considerable time in Belfast. where he had charge of the Ligoniel District. In 1892 he was elected Rector of St. Saviour’s, Broadway. While Superior of St. Mary’s, Carmarthen, he converted the old house in which the Community lived into the present beautiful Retreat. He had been a member of the Community at Harbourne for fifteen years prior to his death. Edifying and fervent in religious observance, Rather Martin, during many years of parochial work, endeared himself to the people by his kindness and sympathy, and his death will be mourned by a large number who are indebted to him for his spiritual ministrations. For about five years he had been in failing health and under medical care. He celebrated Mass for the last time an 26 March, and received the Last Sacraments a few days before the end came. May he rest in peace. The funeral of the deceased Passionist took place in the cemetery attached to St. Mary’s, after Requiem Mass, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Bruno, C.P., deacon, Rev. Fr. Thomas, C.P., sub-deacon, Rev. Fr.Bernardine, C.P., master of ceremonies, Rev. Fr. Cornelius, C.P. Several of the priests of the Arch-diocese of Birmingham, attended the obsequies, as well as members of the Communities of the Sisters of the Poor, Sisters of Mercy, and Sisters of St. Paul. Letters of condolence were received from Archbishop I1sley and Archbishop McIntyre.