Six funerals to say, 'You were the best'

Photo / Sarah Ivey

Monsignor James Cornelius Shannahan, or Father Jim, was so popular that he needed six funerals for everyone to farewell him.

Yesterday's service at St Patrick's Cathedral was the last of six Requiem Masses held for the 85-year-old - the most anyone could remember for anyone anywhere. More than 500 people, with 50 priests, gathered to pay their respects.

"He left his heart in every parish he ministered and in every community," said Bishop Patrick Dunn.

In 2002, the Pope gave Father Jim the title of Prelate of Honour.

In 2007, the Queen appointed him a Member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to the community.

This year, he celebrated his 60th anniversary as a priest, and during this time worked in parishes all over the city.

He was the unofficial chaplain to the Croatian community after serving their parishes in Te Atatu and Henderson.

He also served in Mangakino, Ponsonby, Remuera and Waiheke, as a jail chaplain, and most recently in Orakei.

Ivica Covic first met Father Jim 50 years ago when she arrived from Makarska, Croatia.

She said he will be deeply missed at her family's dinner table this Christmas.

Her husband Tony said Father Jim had played an important role in the Croatian community.

"He christened us, he married us, he was the Croatians' adopted priest."

Vinka and Brent Taylor's tribute in the Herald summed up the feelings of many: "God will now have the pleasure of your company."