Fr Tony Byrne: a priest who was always devoted to the poor

Fr Tony Byrne CSSP, a Spiritan priest who distinguished himself by his extraordinary compassion and evangelical missionary work with the poor, died in late February this year.

Fr Byrne was born on August 5th, 1931, in Inchicore, Dublin, to Mary and Michael Byrne. Educated in St Vincent’s CBS, Glasnevin, and Blackrock College, he entered the Spiritan novitiate in Kilshane, Co Tipperary. He studied philosophy and theology in Kimmage; social science at Swansea University 1960; completed an M.Ed in religion at Boston College in 1983 and, in 1985, a doctorate from St Mary’s, Baltimore, USA.

Ordained in 1958, Fr Byrne was appointed to Nigeria. Through Caritas International in Rome, he directed the relief work in Biafra. His book Airlift to Biafra recounts this extraordinary humanitarian work. Known in the media as the “Green Pimpernel”, he evaded the Nigerian authorities which put a price on his head. He was proud to be the fourth most wanted man in Nigeria. His passion ignited the support of donors, pilots and others. He secured German government funds to buy aircraft that brought food and medicine into Biafra, helping to save the lives of so many children.

His bravery was astounding. His life was also one of quiet, humble, invisible rescue of all who sought his help. Many who knew him feel gratitude for his life and grief at his loss.

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Through the Awareness Education Services in collaborative ministry with Sr Kathleen Maguire, PBVM, whatever would reassure someone they provided – their prayers, their wisdom, the solace of their listening and the balm of their gentle caring presence for those in despair.

Fr Byrne knew how to harness the expertise of professionals. He expected those who had privilege or power to use these gifts on behalf of others. If there was a question he could not personally answer he contacted his list of “advisers”; such as, Dr Nuala Healy, Dr Marie Murray, former prison governor John Lonergan, Fr Michael Begley, and the late councillor Anne Dunne. He had a simple belief: we are all accountable and those in power must help the powerless.

But most of all, this wonderful, fun-loving, lovable, warm-hearted, gentle, generous, determined man was passionate for the poor. He had big wings of faith, wings of hope and kindness, a spirituality that extended out to everyone who needed care. He saved many on the brink of ending it all. He grieved with the bereaved. He spoke truth to power and lived what he believed. He was a maker of peace and justice, always driven to action for others while the strength of his own spirituality sustained him in all that he did. He did not preach, he lived his faith.