Kearney lived to serve humanity

CITIZENS of Durban, and indeed the entire country, will be all 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.

A committed Christian, Kearney helped establish and promote the wellknown Diakonia Centre and the Denis Hurley Centre in Durban.

He 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 Durban and the country as a whole are 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 inspired hope and peace in people.

He will be sorely missed across the length and breadth of Durban and the entire country.