Edmund O'Reilly (theologian) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Reverend Father Edmund O'Reilly |
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|---|---|
| Orders | |
| Ordination | 1838 |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 30 April 1811 London, England, United Kingdom |
| Died | 10 November 1878 Dublin, Ireland, United Kingdom |
| Nationality | Irish |
| Denomination | Roman Catholic |
| Profession | Priest and theologian |
| Alma mater | Roman College, Rome, Papal States |
Edmund James O'Reilly SJ (born April 30, 1811 – died November 10, 1878) was an important Irish Jesuit priest and a deep thinker about religious topics, known as a Catholic theologian. He was highly respected for his knowledge and advice on Church matters during his lifetime.
Contents
About Edmund O'Reilly
Early Life and Education
Edmund James O'Reilly was born in London, England, on April 30, 1811. He went to school at Clongowes and Maynooth in Ireland. He then spent seven years studying theology in Rome at the Roman College. Theology is the study of religious faith and practice. After his studies, he earned a special degree called Doctor of Divinity. This showed he was an expert in all areas of theology.
Becoming a Priest and Teacher
Edmund O'Reilly became a priest in 1838. For 13 years, he taught theology at Maynooth College. Later, he joined the Jesuit order. Jesuits are a group of Catholic priests and brothers known for their work in education and missionary efforts. He began his training to become a Jesuit at a place called a novitiate in Naples, Italy. After this, he taught theology for several years at Saint Beuno's College in North Wales.
Leadership and Influence
When the Catholic University of Ireland was started in Dublin, O'Reilly was chosen to be a Professor of Theology there. He also held important leadership roles within the Jesuit order. He was the Rector (which is like a head) of a spiritual retreat house near Dublin. From 1863 to 1870, he served as the Provincial of Ireland. This meant he was in charge of all the Jesuit activities in Ireland.
Edmund O'Reilly was often asked for his advice on religious questions by bishops and priests in Ireland. He was chosen as a special advisor, or "theologian," by several important bishops. For example, he advised Cardinal Paul Cullen at a meeting of bishops in 1850.
A very famous Catholic leader, Cardinal John Henry Newman, spoke highly of O'Reilly. In one of his well-known writings, Newman called O'Reilly "a great authority" and "one of the first theologians of the day." This shows how respected O'Reilly was for his deep understanding of faith.
His Main Work and Death
Edmund O'Reilly's most important book was titled The Relations of the Church to Society. This book explored how the Church connects with the wider world.
