Kearney lived to serve humanity

SOUTH AFRICA is the poorer after the passing of well-known and highly respected religious leader, activist and peacemaker Paddy Kearney on Friday.

While many prominent leaders of the past are remembered for their public status and pronouncements, Kearney was someone who spoke with his deeds – on the ground, in the streets, in places of worship and across all communities.

Gentle and humble by nature, Kearney, who was 76, lived his life in the service of others. What he enjoyed most was working tirelessly for the poor, the homeless, the marginalised and the oppressed.

During the dark days of apartheid, he played a leading role fighting injustice and discrimination on many fronts, working closely alongside Archbishop Denis Hurley.

He was, in fact, the author of the first full biography of Hurley and in recent months had been promoting his latest book based on Hurley’s letters.

He describes Hurley as “undoubtedly the most significant Catholic leader in South Africa during the twentieth century... and had a profound effect upon the Church’s struggle against apartheid and... renewing the Catholic Church… He was years ahead of his time in his views on South Africa’s racial problems (and) reforms in the Church”.

A committed Christian, Kearney was awarded a special medal by Pope Francis for his services to the church. But he was also at the forefront of several campaigns to foster inter-faith partnerships among communities and was widely respected among members and leaders of all faiths.

If the country is to succeed in the future in dealing with the many serious challenges facing us, we will need more people of the calibre, dedication and commitment of Paddy Kearney.

He was someone who inspire hope and peace in people. He will be sorely missed.