Passing of Father Melvin Bennett

St. Alphonsus Liguori staff and parish family extend our deepest sympathy and prayers for Father Melvin Bennett who passed away on Tuesday, April 19 at Saint Vincent's Hospital in Indianapolis. Fr. Bennett was ordained on May 24, 1969 and served at a number of parishes throughout the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana, including as pastor for St. Alphonsus Liguori from 1984 to 1988. Fr. Bennett most recently served as Senior Associate Pastor at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Carmel, Ind.

Bishop Timothy Doherty announced the passing of Fr. Bennett to the diocesan community during his homily for the Chrism Mass Tuesday evening at St. Mary's Cathedral. "Fr. Bennett loved and looked forward to the Chrism Mass each year, and it was comforting to know he was still able to be there with us in a very special way," expressed Fr. Joshua Janko.

A visitation will take place on Monday, April 25 from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton parish. A special 24 hour vigil will also occur from 11 a.m. on Monday to 11 a.m. on Tuesday.

The Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 26 at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Bishop Timothy Doherty will be the celebrant with Bishop William Higi and the classmates of Father Bennett as concelebrants along with the priests of the Diocese. A special luncheon will take place at the parish hall following the Mass.

It is requested that in lieu of flowers for donations to be made to the Father Melvin Bennett Spiritual Center located on the campus of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish.

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church is located at 10655 Haverstick Road, Carmel, IN 46033.
(Click here to view information on Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton's homepage )

Please join the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana and the parish community in prayer for the repose of Fr. Bennett's soul.

Prayer for a deceased priest
O God, Thou didst raise Thy servant, Father Melvin Bennett,
to the sacred priesthood of Jesus Christ,
according to the Order of Melchisedech,
giving him the sublime power
to offer the Eternal Sacrifice,
to bring the Body and Blood of Thy Son Jesus Christ down upon the altar,
and to absolve the sins of men in Thine own Holy Name.
We beseech Thee to reward his faithfulness
and to forget his faults,
admitting him speedily into Thy Holy Presence,
there to enjoy forever the recompense of his labors.
This we ask through Jesus Christ Thy Son, our Lord.

Amen.