Born March 2, 1901 in upper Manhattan, New York, he went to grammar school, then Regis High School. Attracted to business he worked in a major financial house in Manhattan. However, he went to the Passionist Preparatory Seminary, Dunkirk, New York and then on to the novitiate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where he professed his vows on August 15, 1924 and received the religious name Matthias. On February 8, 1931 he was ordained a priest. He worked in St. Joseph’s Parish, Union City, New Jersey, then was appointed vice-rector at St. Mary’s Monastery, Dunkirk. However, he was beset with a heart condition which curtailed his ministries even though there were times of improvement He died suddenly while visiting a religious article shop on Barclay Street, New York City. He died in the arms of Father Hugh Carroll, C.P. who was with him.
Birth Date:
March 2, 1901
Profession Date:
August 15, 1924
Ordination Date:
February 8, 1931
Death Date:
March 20, 1956
Religious Name:
Matthias of the Precious Blood O'Byrne