Let us keep the souls and the families of the faithful departed in our prayers:

Timothy Burke Lynch
Bishop Lynch has informed us of the death of his brother, Timothy Burke (Tim) Lynch, 75, who resided for a number of years in Hollywood, Florida.  Mr. Lynch died at home on Sunday night, May 6, 2018, while under Hospice care, one day after his release from the hospital.

In recent years, Tim has suffered from cancer of the lungs and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.  His death was seen by Bishop Lynch and his family as a blessing from a generous Lord.

The family plans a small and mostly-private Memorial Mass on Thursday, May 17, at 12:00 p.m. at Little Flower Catholic Church, 1805 Pierce Street, Hollywood, Florida.  Visitation with the family will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church, prior to Mass.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Bishop Lynch, in care of the Pastoral Center, P.O. Box 40200, St. Petersburg, FL  33743-0200.

Brother Stephen Freeman, O.S.B.
We received word of the death of Brother Stephen Freeman, OSB, 82, on May 6, 2018.  He was born in Brooklyn, New York on October 26, 1935.  He is survived by an extensive family.

Brother Stephen entered Saint Leo Abbey in 2004.  Brother Stephen lived like a monk, trying to be holy, as our call entails. One of his most significant qualities is that he was a great mentor to young people.

During his time in the Abbey, Brother Stephen did many jobs as he was able to.   Stephen helped Father Robert Velten during his time as superior of the house. For a time, Brother Stephen was also working with the priest in charge of campus ministry at Saint Leo University. Additionally, for some time, Stephen also ran the kitchen of the Abbey.

Brother Stephen had the gift of talking, and he managed the Welcome Center that was in use until 2012, he welcomed all types of people that were passing by when visiting the Abbey, as well as students that needed someone to talk to.

Brother Stephen’s last job, until a few days before his death, was being the Abbey receptionist. Once again, Stephen was the first contact with people at the Abbey either in person or over the phone.

Brother Stephen will be missed by the Community of Saint Leo.

A Funeral Mass was held on Friday, May 11, 2018 in the Saint Leo Abbey Church.

The souls of the just are in the hand of God – Wisdom 3:1