Statement by President Michael D. Higgins on the death of Br Kevin Crowley
Date: Wed 2nd Jul, 2025 | 12:10
“May I join with all those who have expressed such sadness on learning of the death of Brother Kevin Crowley.
Through his support and respect for those most in need, Brother Kevin made an invaluable contribution to the people of Dublin city.
The Capuchin Day Centre on Church Street, founded by Brother Kevin in 1969, has gone on to provide essential services to the homeless population of the city for nearly 60 years. The hot meals, food parcels, clothing, showers, family services, and medical and dental services have not just extended care of the most vulnerable, but has been exemplary in showing a fundamental respect for the dignity of each person and allowed so many of those who have availed of the services to rebuild their lives.
It was extremely appropriate that Pope Francis visited Brother Kevin and the Capuchin Day Centre during his visit to Ireland in 2018 and met with those present and volunteers.
I was deeply honoured to meet with Brother Kevin on many occasions throughout the years and to share in his company. Brother Kevin was a warm, caring, yet fearless man, who dedicated his life to living his Christian faith in dedication to those most in need.
Brother Kevin leaves a wonderful legacy to all those whose lives to which he made such a difference.
Sabina and I will miss his messages, which continued after his move to Cork.
May I express my deepest condolences to Brother Kevin’s family, to all of his fellow Capuchins, and to all of his many friends and colleagues across the country.
Síocháin síoraí do a anam lách uasal.”