The events of the passing of Archbishop Hannan, just one year ago today, from the 1st announcement of his death, through all the marvelous tributes that followed, the events surrounding his services and funeral, still remain fresh. This indeed was a holy man, a people's Archbishop, one of us. He was as important to us in this greater New Orleans area in retirement as he was in service as the 24-year reigning Archbishop of New Orleans. And make no mistake; he was everything in an Archbishop the Catholic faithful and the greater community at large would want and could ever need!
Archbishop Hannan was many things, but kind and gentle stand out. Yes, he was tough and among his peers, perhaps one of the more outspoken and patriotic of the bunch. First and foremost he was a Priest. As Archbishop he loved celebrating Mass, hearing confessions, taking people aside and just being present to them and he loved, loved rolling up his sleeves and solving problems. He loved all things New Orleans and was among the New Orleans Saints biggest fans.
His last years were spent in Covington. He was a fixture at the St. Tammany Parish Courthouse as he walked the steps daily for exercise. He began helping out local Northshore parishes by presiding at Mass in Covington, Abita Springs and other communities. As an acolyte and later as a Deacon I had the most amazing privilege to assist him at Mass. Always kind, he never seemed to mind if I had to remind him, very occasionally of what was next or where he was on the page. After all, he was in his late nineties but he was sharp. I will never forget those Masses.
Other colleagues of mine had the graced opportunity to assist him at Mass when Mass became a more private affair in his personal residence. Everyone of those Deacons told me the same thing; what a memory that will last a lifetime!
What I think I remember most about the Archbishops funeral was the overwhelming turnout of people on the streets and across the city as his body was moved from Notre Dame seminary to St. Louis Cathedral. In a city more known for it's outlandish celebrations of parades and processions, this one was all New Orleans, but with a deep, profound respect and dare I say love, for this New Orleans and Catholic icon.
When Archbishop Philip M. Hannan died so did the last remaining American witness to Vatican II and the only Bishop/Archbishop of this great diocese to make it possible for the visit of a Pope. On grand scales and in personal reflections, we remember Archbishop Philip M. Hannan, on this the 1st anniversary of his passing to everlasting life.
Well done; good and faithful servant!
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