Fr. Michael Butler RIP

Some of you may have known Fr. Michael Butler, a priest of Brentwood Diocese, who died recently. I knew him from my time in the Chaplaincy at Cambridge and then from his visits to Oscott. He died last week at Conewood Care Home, Bishop’s Stortford where he had lived for over three years since his retirement. Father Michael was born 13 November 1934. Educated at Bancroft’s School, Woodford Green, he served in Royal Air Force (National Service) and was received into the Church at Chingford in 1955. He studied for the priesthood at St Augustine’s House, Walworth, and Venerable English College, Rome, where he was ordained by Cardinal Heard on 27 October 1963. He was appointed first as Assistant Priest at Chadwell Heath (1964-1971) before undertaking further Studies at Mount Oliver Catechetical Institute, Dundalk (1971-1972). He became chaplain at New Hall (1971-1976) and then went for further studies in U.S.A. (1976-1978), before returning and being appointed as Assistant Priest at Leyton (1978-1980). He became Parish Priest of Brightlingsea (1980-2001 and Catholic Chaplain to the University of Essex, Old Harlow (2001-2020). He was variously Chairman of the diocesan art and architecture committee, and a member of the Liturgical Commission and Historic Churches Committee. Please pray for the repose of his soul and for the comfort and consolation of his family and friends. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

The arrangements for Fr. Michael’s Funeral rites are: Thursday 8th February 4.30pm Reception of the Coffin and 7.00pm Requiem Mass. Then on Friday 9th February, his funeral Mass will be at Holy Cross Church, Tracyes Road, Harlow at 11.30am. [Image: Your Harlow]