Reverend T Gregory Culligan

Rev. T. Gregory Culligan

Rev. Gregory Culligan, beloved former pastor of multiple parishes in the Diocese of Bathurst, died peacefully at the Bathurst Regional Hospital on Thursday, October 5th, 2023, at the age of 79.

Father Greg was the son of the late George and Florence (Devereaux) Culligan.

Born in Culligan, NB, Gregory attended school in Belledune and graduated in 1963.  He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree at St. Francis Xavier University in 1967.  He completed his Theology degree at St. Paul University Seminary in 1971, and, afterwards served as an ordained deacon at St. Mary’s Basilica in Halifax.  His ordination to the priesthood occurred on June 23, 1972, in Belledune.  Father Greg continued his theological education through intensive programs at the University of Boston College, Loretta Heights College in Colorado and Hawkstone Hall in England.

Father Culligan served as curate in Bathurst (Sacred Heart Cathedral 1972-74; 1975-78), Dalhousie (St. Jean Baptiste 1974-75) and East Bathurst (1978).

He was appointed pastor for South Bathurst (1980-84); Dalhousie (St. John Bosco) 1984-98; Bathurst English-speaking  Sector (Scared Heart Cathedral, Ste. Theresa’s, Mont Carmel) 1998-2003; Campbellton (St. Thomas Aquinas), Glen Levit (St. Anthony’s), Dalhousie (St. John Bosco) 2003-05; Bathurst English-speaking Pastoral Unit (Holy Family, St. Theresa’s, Sacred Heart Cathedral) 2005-14.

Father Greg took on many additional responsibilities throughout his time in the Diocese.  He coordinated catechetical programs, spiritual renewal groups and liturgical promotion. He was a long serving member on the College of Consultors and the Economic Affairs Committee.  He was appointed spiritual director of the C.W.L.  He was Chaplain of Council as well as a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus.  Father Greg was the recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow Award, one of the highest honours bestowed by the Rotary Club to community professionals in recognition of their outstanding contributions that exemplify placing ‘Service Above Self’.

Father Greg is survived by his brother, Terrance; sister, Bernadette; brother-in-law, Bill Chase; nephew, Liam; and niece, Georgia.  He was predeceased by his parents and brothers, George Jr., and Barry.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Church in Bathurst on Wednesday, October 11, at 2:00 pm. Visitation will be held at St. John the Evangelist Church, Belledune on Monday, October 9 and Tuesday, October 10 from 4 pm to 8 pm each day.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of MacMillan and Drapeau Funeral Home, Black Point, NB. (www.macmillansfuneralhome.ca)

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