Brooklyn diocese launches sainthood cause of priest who earned KKK’s wrath

June 29, 2010

Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn on June 24 opened a canonical inquiry into the canonization cause of Msgr. Bernard J. Quinn (1888-1940), a diocesan priest who fought racial bigotry. During the Great Depression, the Ku Klux Klan, which he courageously opposed, twice burned down an orphanage he built for African-American children.

“Almighty God blessed the Diocese of Brooklyn by sending Father Quinn to minister among us,” said Bishop DiMarzio. “That ministry did not end upon his death but has continued to grow and take root in the hearts and souls of the faithful and clergy of this church in New York, which has continually ministered to the poor and oppressed. I am delighted to be given the privilege to preside at the opening of the cause of canonization for this priest who was a courageous and tireless proponent of the equality of all people.”

 

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Further information:

• Brooklyn Diocese Seeks Sainthood for Priest Who Fought Bigotry (New York Times)
• Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio Opens Inquiry Into The Cause of Canonization of Brooklyn Priest (Diocese of Brooklyn)