Father Aquinas McGurk, C.P., St. Paul of the Cross Province (1926-1977)

Born Harold McGurk on July 3, 1926, he was professed on August 15, 1947. He was ordained on February 27, 1953, and he returned from doctoral studies in Rome in 1956. He was professor of dogmatic philosophy for eight years and director of theology students for four years after which he taught religion at Holy Cross Seminary in Dunkirk, New York. In 1968 Father McGurk became director of St. Michael’s Passionist Residence at 425 G Salisbury Street, Worcester, Massachusetts. This was the new Passionist formation program affiliated with nearby Assumption College. In 1970 he was assigned as novice master at Holy Family Monastery, West Hartford, Connecticut. He held the position for seven years. It took an emotional and physical toll upon him. Under his direction thirty-five religious took their first vows. For Father McGurk being was more important than doing. Shortly before his death he was assigned to the Passionist residence at Staten Island, New York.