This web site is a memorial to those individuals who were passionate about the reform of the
Roman Catholic liturgy as set forth in Sacrosanctum Concilium (the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy)
and who now, in eternal life, worship the God whom they served in this life.

Patrick Byrne

Patrick Byrne
1931 - 2002

Msgr. Patrick Byrne of Lindsay, Ontario, (Peterborough Diocese) Canada died yesterday at the age of 71.

Father Byrne was editor of the National Bulletin for Liturgy from 1972-1987. In addition to that work, Pat edited with a very critical eye many liturgical publications for the National Liturgy Office of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (English Sector).

Even after he retired from active ministry, Pat continued to be active in liturgy in Canada. Pat will be missed by those who knew him and relied on his sound liturgical judgement.

Pat was a member of the North American Academy for Liturgy and Societas Liturgica. Pat received the Spirit and Truth Award at the CPL Conference 2001.


Tribute prepared by Sr. Donna Kelly, cnd, Director, National Liturgy Office, Canada.


Tributes from his colleagues:

“Here is a man whose charm, consistent good will, and scholarship taught us all about the heart of liturgy. We will remember so much.”

“His contributions through the National Bulletin over the years have helped good liturgy in Canada, the United States and, I am sure, worldwide. May he have the joy and peace of life with the risen Christ!”

“I knew Pat when we were both studying (and playing) at Notre Dame; his class notes became the basis for many issues of the National Bulletin and were invaluable to me as a student and for years beyond. He continued to be a gracious presence with a twinkle in his eye at various meetings over the years.”