Priest with Siena link dies during rescue efforts

He died shortly after the first tower at the World Trade Center was hit by a plane. He had accompanied firefighters who went into the tower before it collapsed. A woman's body fell on one of the firefighters, and then falling debris hit Father Judge while he was giving the woman and the firefighter last rites.

At the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 14, President George W. Bush referred to him as "a beloved priest."

From 1976-79, Father Judge was assistant to Rev. High Hines, OFM, president of Siena College in Loudonville. He also was known for work with AIDS patients and other ministries, and had become a close friend of Detective Steven McDonald, the New York police officer who has been a quadriplegic since he was shot in 1986.

"I had a great affection for Father Judge," Bishop Howard J. Hubbard told The Evangelist. "When I was ordained a bishop, he worked with diocesan officials to prepare for the ceremony."

Bishop Hubbard's ordination ceremony was held at Siena College in 1977.

"I was with him twice in just the last few months," the Bishop continued, mentioning a speech he had given in New York City and his investment as a Franciscan associate. "He was a very warm and gracious person. He rejoiced in his role as a fire chaplain, especially in his work with the firefighters and their families."

Last week, Siena College held a memorial Mass for Father Judge, who had been a Franciscan friar for 46 years and a priest for 40 years. At that service, Rev. Kevin Mackin, OFM, president of Siena, said that "within all the news coverage, I saw a photograph of Mychal, unconscious and fading and covered with dust, being carried from the zone. As we realize the importance of life and of generosity, I am announcing a Father Mychal Judge Scholarship for the sons and daughters of New York City firefighters who gave their lives helping others in the World Trade Center disaster."

A Funeral Mass for Father Judge was celebrated Sept. 15 at St. Francis Church in New York City, with Cardinal Edward Egan officiating.

(09-20-01) [[In-content Ad]]