July 27, 2011 - Update Regarding the Remains of Cardinal William O'Connell

The following statement provides an update regarding the permanent relocation of the late Cardinal William O’Connell’s remains from the former Archdiocese of Boston Brighton owned property.  This past week his remains were reinterred on the grounds of St. John’s Seminary in Brighton.

"The reinterment of the late Cardinal William O’Connell completes a process that began in 2004 when the Archdiocese of Boston agreed to relocate the tomb of the Cardinal in connection with the sale of its Brighton property to Boston College. In accordance with an agreement reached with the late Cardinal’s next of kin, and in keeping with the wishes expressed in his last will and testament, his remains have been reinterred on the grounds of St John’s Seminary with prayers performed offered by Bishop Arthur Kennedy, Rector of St. John’s Seminary

In addition, the Archdiocese wishes to express its gratitude to Bishop Arthur Kennedy, Rector of St. John’s Seminary and the Board of Trustees at St. John’s for making this relocation possible.  A formal ceremony marking the permanent location of the late Cardinal’s remains will be held at a later date.  Additional work will be conducted on the new site and a new grave stone will be installed at the appropriate time."