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A resolution honoring the life of Father Joseph Breen.
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WHEREAS, Father Joseph Breen passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2022, at the age of 87; and
WHEREAS, Father Breen was a Nashville native and graduated from Father Ryan High School before leaving town for seminary at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa; and
WHEREAS, after completing his graduate studies at the North American College in Rome, Father Breen was ordained at St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican on December 20, 1961; and
WHEREAS, Father Breen served in parishes in Memphis, Chattanooga, Cleveland, and spent 10 years at St. Rose of Lima Church in Murfreesboro before making his way back to serve as pastor at St. Edward Church in South Nashville; and
WHEREAS, Father Breen served his local parish at St. Edward Church for 30 years and was an advocate and community organizer within the city and state, and the Catholic Church at-large; and
WHEREAS, Father Breen was known for his progressive stances and was vocal about Catholic Church policies, societal and political issues, and was also a strong supporter of education; and
WHEREAS, Father Breen was instrumental in purchasing the building formerly occupied by Radnor Baptist Church on Nolensville Road and leading the effort to convert it into a Catholic church to serve the rapidly growing Hispanic community in South Nashville; and
WHEREAS, the church was named Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, and it became the Nashville diocese's first parish for Spanish-speaking Catholics; and
WHEREAS, fondly known as "Joe Pat", Father Joseph Breen became a friend to many in the community, including mayors, council members, and members of Congress; and
WHEREAS, Father Breen was a well-known and beloved figure in the Nashville community, renowned for his integrity, compassion, personality, courage, and tireless generosity; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council honors the life of Father Joseph Breen and recognizes his many y...
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