Today marks the fifth anniversary of the death of Archbishop Philip Tartaglia (†13 January 2021).
In his homily at the Requiem Mass, Bishop Hugh Gilbert offered an image that has stayed with many:
“A tree felled unexpectedly in the middle of the night… an uprooting that has changed the landscapes of so many lives.”
Five years on, that image continues to resonate. In the days and years since his death, many have come to see the depth of his roots, the shelter he gave, and the quiet strength on which so many relied. Bishop Hugh spoke of “the sound timber” of his life, a man of integrity, warmth and faith.
Today we give thanks for Archbishop Philip’s life and ministry, for his love of Christ and the Church, and for his faithful service to the people and the Church in Scotland. We commend him to God’s mercy.
“The great tree goes into the earth as a seed… Man’s winter, God’s spring.”
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
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