Cork man shot in LA was a reluctant bishop, but an authentically generous person

In the wake of his violent death, Ann Murphy talks to those who will remember Bishop David O’Connell for his work with the vulnerable and his ‘commitment to justice’

Bishop David O’Connell leading a non-denominational memorial service at the Saint Cornelius Catholic Church in California in 2020. Picture: Apu GOMES/AFP via Getty Images

David O’Connell never wanted to be a bishop. A man of his people, he would have preferred to remain a priest at one with his flock.

A humanitarian, a community builder, a peacemaker — he tried to make a difference to the many lives he touched.