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REQUIEM MASS FOR BISHOP BEVARD HELD AT SAINTS PETER AND PAUL CATHEDRAL
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October 3, 2025On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, the Diocese of Saint Thomas in the Virgin Islands gathered in solemn prayer and thanksgiving for the life of Most Rev. Herbert A. Bevard, Bishop Emeritus of Saint Thomas, during a Requiem Mass held at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in Charlotte Amalie.
Presided over by Most Rev. Jerome Feudjio, the Mass brought together clergy, religious, civil leaders, and faithful from across the territory to honor Bishop Bevard’s legacy of pastoral care. In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the hope of eternal life. Bishop Feudjio reflected on Bishop Bevard’s love for the Virgin Islands, recalling the latter’s joyful declaration upon arrival in 2008: “I have been transferred to paradise!” The bishop’s words were echoed in the hope that he now rests in the true Paradise, the eternal home prepared by God.A Life of Faithful Service
Born on February 24, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, Bishop Bevard converted to Catholicism as a young man and entered St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia. He was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on May 20, 1972, by Cardinal John Krol. His ministry included assignments in several parishes, most notably as pastor of St. Athanasius Parish in Philadelphia, where he led a vibrant renewal of parish life and education.
In 2008, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Saint Thomas, where he served until his retirement in 2020. His episcopal ministry was marked by a deep love for the people of the Virgin Islands, a tireless devotion to the sacraments, and a commitment to restoring the Cathedral and supporting Catholic schools and The Catholic Charities.His Passing and Funeral
Bishop Bevard passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at his home in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 79. His funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, September 26, 2025, at St. Athanasius Church in Philadelphia, with Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz as the principal celebrant. He was laid to rest in Oxford, Pennsylvania, where he had spent much of his early life.
The Requiem Mass in Saint Thomas served as a local tribute to his years of service and spiritual leadership in the Virgin Islands. The livestream of the Mass remains available for viewing:
WATCH REQUIEM MASSFinal Tribute
As the Diocese continues to mourn the passing of Bishop Bevard, it also celebrates the enduring impact of his ministry and entrusts him to the mercy and love of God.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
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Photos from Requiem Mass (Facebook)
Tributes and Eulogies
Watch Funeral Mass