Funeral of Bishop Michael Rowland ofm

Photos taken at Maria Ratchitz Mission on

29th September 2012

Bishop Michael, died in hospital in Pretoria on 23rd September 2012. His body was taken into the Cathedral of Dundee Diocese for a vigil Mass at 6.00pm on Friday 28th September.

After this Mass, the body was brought to Maria Ratchitz Mission, to lay overnight in the Church which Michael had had restored. The Nardini sisters reside at this Mission overseeing the Aids Hospice, and having their novitiate there too. Michael retired to live here in 2007, residing in a little house provided by the sisters.

Michael died peacefully in his sleep, fully prepared and eagerly awaiting Sister Death. He has returned for his final resting place at the Mission he loved so very much.

R.I.P.

The body of Bishop Michael lay overnight in the church

Late into the previous evening the Nardini sisters kept vigil, singing and saying prayers for the repose of Michael’s soul.

The coffin of the priest is placed with the head at the altar.

The coffin was carried by seminarians and placed before the altar.

Priests and people gather outside for the Mass led by the Cardinal

Cardinal Wilfrid Napier ofm leads the tributes to Michael

Bishop Graham Rose, Bishop of Dundee Diocese leads the prayers of the final commendation before the procession to the grave.

“May the Angels lead you into Paradise, the Martyrs welcome you as you draw near, and lead you into Jerusalem, the heavenly city . . .”

The body of Michael is carried to the grave by family, friars and friends

Bishops, priests and people gather at the grave to say farewell

Bishop Graham Rose of Dundee blesses the grave. The Cardinal, Archbishop William Slattery, Archbishop Jubilani Nxumalo, Bishop Jose Luis and the family wait for the burial to commence.

Bishop Jose-Luis, Isabel, Carmel, John and seminarians

Bishop Michael’s grave lies at the cross outside the church of Maria Ratchitz, the outside altar can be see to the right.

The statue of Our Lady, is above the grave chosen by Michael

Maria Ratchitz Mission sits at the base of Hlatikulu mountain.

From the Nardini sisters in South Africa.

“We want to add our sincere condolences and good wishes to the immediate family and friends of our dear Bishop Michael Paschal. We have lost a true and unforgettable friend and Father, and will always treasure the inspiring example he has set us in so many ways.

“United in prayer for our dear late Bishop.”