september 16, 2008

“I will be judged in the evening of my life as I walk into the light, that I will be judged on loving others…love never fails…..As I surely and securely walk onto the light, I will meet you each in paradise.” Br. Daniel Casey, FSC, in his last message to Bethlehem University Community.

Bethlehem University Remembers Brother Daniel Casey, FSC

The Christian Brothers Community, Bethlehem University staff, faculty and students gathered together on Wednesday, 03 September, in the University Chapel of the Divine Child to remember the life of Brother Daniel Casey FSC, Vice Chancellor of Bethlehem University.

Brother Daniel, who worked at Bethlehem University from 2005 to 2008, passed away at the age of 74 on the morning of Wednesday, 30 July, in the United States, where he had travelled to receive treatment for cancer.  

The Mass was celebrated by H.E. Archbishop Antonio Franco, Apostolic Delegate to Jerusalem and Palestine, as well as Chancellor of Bethlehem University, and H.B. Archbishop Fuad Twal, Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and President of Bethlehem University, along with priests from several churches in the Holy Land.

During the mass, Brother Peter Iorlano, FSC reflected on his former colleague and friend remembering moments from years past. “In the ten years I had been working with and now having been living with Brother Daniel here in Bethlehem, I had grown to respect, love, and in some ways depend on the confidence in and care he had shown to me.  He was even so good and patient in tolerating me when I challenged and dare I say occasionally argued with him.”

Reflecting on his last visit to Brother Daniel in New York, Brother Peter said: “He showed a lively interest in Bethlehem University followed by a reflective disappointment in not being able to execute the plans he had for the university; however, he said that God had something else in store for him, that his dying would serve another purpose in God’s plan.”

Brother Peter concluded the mass by saying, “Brother Daniel lived and died faithfully, humbly, and selflessly caring for others.”

Before he died Brother Daniel said: “My experiences at Bethlehem University hold a special place in my heart.” 

We at Bethlehem University will always keep you in our hearts as well. 

May your soul rest in peace Brother Daniel.