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Deacon Jim Richards MBE has died


Deacon Jim with Cardinal Cormac

Deacon Jim with Cardinal Cormac

Deacon Jim Richards, who served as head of the Catholic Children's Society, Westminster, for 16 years, died on Saturday, 22 February, 2014, the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter, after a long illness. Jim was ordained as a Permanent Deacon for the Diocese of Westminster in July 2006. He is survived by his wife Diane and their two children.

Rosemary Keenan, who succeeded Jim as CEO of the Catholic Children's Society Westminster said: "Deacon Jim Richards was a man of integrity and for whom the faith was a reality to be lived and expressed in all that he did. For those of us who worked under his leadership, he was an inspiration. His faith and passionate concern for children and belief in the importance of family life is a legacy that we strive to continue.

"He spoke out against poverty and injustice and sought to make a difference to improve the lives of those who suffer. Jim was first and foremost a family man and his marriage to Diane was a shining example to all of marriage as a life long and affirming commitment. Our thoughts and prayers are with Diane, his children and grandchildren at this time of great loss. It was a privilege to have worked closely with him."

Canon Pat Browne said: "When I became Director for Permanent Deacons Jim was one of the first people who presented himself as a possible candidate. He did it humbly and had a true understanding that this was a ministry of service.

"Humility and Service was in his blood. He knew what it was to wash feet. We thank God for an exemplary Servant, in the way he lived and in the way he died. May he rest now from his labours and receive the reward the Lord has prepared for him."

Funeral arrangements for Deacon Jim Richards follow below. The celebrant will be Bishop John Arnold.

Jim’s reception into the church is on Wednesday 12 March at 7pm. The Requiem Mass is at 10.30 on Thursday 13 March. Following Mass there will be a short service at Hanworth Crematorium followed by refreshments back in the parish hall.

The family have requested family flowers only and that instead of personal floral contributions a donation is made to CCS.

Parish church is:
Our Lady Queen of Apostles
15 The Green
Heston Road
Heston
TW5 0RL

See Obituary here: www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=24275

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