Mystery Unfolding

Ignatius Kelly OFM (1923–2017), a distinguished systematic theologian, obtained his doctorate at the Pontifical Athenaeum Antonianum in Rome in 1954, and was subsequently invited to attend Vatican II as a peritus (though circumstances did not allow). He taught Franciscan students for many years, moving in 1973 to the newly established Franciscan Study Centre in Canterbury. He served the Order as Vicar Provincial and Minister Provincial, and conducted Visitations of the Provinces in Malta, California, Australia, New York and Ireland. However, it is as an erudite and gifted preacher of retreats, and as a wise spiritual director that Fr Ignatius is most affectionately remembered. Well known for never committing anything to paper, this collaborative task with Patricia Armstrong is a tribute to his intellect and a welcome legacy.

Patricia Armstrong, a writer and poet, had been inspired in her own work by the story of our redemption and of the growing relationship of God with his people. Active for many years in parish ministry, she was involved with ongoing faith formation, and with prayer days and retreats.