In memory of the Rev. Thomas Herbert O’Driscoll

We have recently learned of the death of the Rev. Herb O’Driscoll. I first encountered Herb in Ottawa in the mid 1960s when the Sunday worship services from St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, Elgin Street, were broadcast on the radio. I remember, even now, that Irish lilt in his voice and how what he said made sense to me when lots of things about the church didn’t. From Ottawa, he moved to the West Coast, becoming the rector at the cathedral in Vancouver. He lived in B.C. for the rest of his life.

I next encountered Herb when I became involved with the Anglican Fellowship of Prayer (AFP) in 1990s, and through his association with Bishop Barry Curtis, another priest who moved west to Calgary from Ottawa and who was the National Director of AFP for a time before retiring and coming back to Ottawa. From that time right up to the present time, Herb and I became “pen pals,” firstly by written letters and then by email. Over the years, Herb wrote many articles on prayer for the AFP Newsletter and others. He also produced several audio CDs, one of which, Prayer Among Friends: an Audio Journey into the World of Prayer, has been converted and is available on the AFP website at https://anglicanprayer.org/index.php/hov/.

Herb’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to his faith, tireless service to his community and a boundless spirit that touched the lives of all who knew him. His ministry was not confined to the walls of a church; it extended to the streets, homes, and hearts of everyone he encountered. With a gentle voice and a warm smile, he brought comfort to the weary, hope to the downtrodden, and joy to the sorrowful. Whether he was delivering a powerful sermon, visiting the sick, or lending a listening ear, his presence was a testament to God’s love in action. He taught us the true meaning of grace, humility, and selflessness, always putting others before himself. He was an inspiration to all who knew him,

His spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched, the lessons he imparted, and the love he shared so freely. We give thanks for the gift of his presence among us. His earthly journey may have come to an end, but his light will continue to shine brightly in our memories and in our hearts. May we honor his legacy by living with the same compassion, faith, and dedication that he exemplified every day of his life. Rest in peace, Reverend Thomas Herbert O’Driscoll. Your spirit will forever be with us, guiding us, comforting us, and reminding us of the power of prayer and a life lived in service to others.