WASHINGTON — A priest considered a voice for the poor in the Arlington Catholic diocese died suddenly last Thursday after complications from heart surgery. He was 73.
The Rev. Gerard Creedon’s work as a priest made him a well-known figure within the Catholic Diocese of Arlington.
He served as pastor for a number of area parishes – including Holy Family Catholic Church in Dale City.
Among his many contributions, the Rev. Creedon had served as director of diocesan Catholic Charities. He helped found a diocesan mission in the Dominican Republic, founded Catholics for Housing, Gabriel Homes for people with disabilities and the diocesan Peace and Justice Commission.
The Rev. Robert C. Cilinski, pastor of Church of the Nativity in Burke, talked to the Arlington Catholic Herald about Father Creedon’s music abilities.
“The song that was Father Creedon’s life continues to be the music of our hearts forever,” Cilinski said. “I think everyone is brokenhearted, which is a testament to how much he is loved.”
He was the fourth of 14 children. He was born in 1944 in County Cork, Ireland.
Creedon was ordained as priest for the Diocese of Richmond in 1968.
His body will be received at the Holy Family Catholic Church in Dale City for a vigil from noon until 7 p.m. Monday.
A burial mass will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21 at Good Shepherd Church, 8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria, VA 22309.
The diocese says a reception will follow in Father Gerry Creedon Hall.
Creedon will be buried in Ireland, at a later date.
