January 2 is the anniversary of Edward A. O’Reilly.

Edward Augustine O’Reilly, son of John O’Reilly and Margaret Corcoran, was born in Maryborough, Ireland, September 8, 1849. He commenced studies in Laois County, Ireland, and later with the Oblate Fathers in England. Coming to America he entered the novitiate at Villanova on January 21, 1871, pronounced simple vows on January 22, 1872, and solemn vows on January 24, 1875. After four years study at Villanova he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Stephen V. Ryan of Buffalo at Germantown, PA, on July 18, 1875.

Father O’Reilly’s first assignment was as a curate at Old Saint Augustine’s in Philadelphia, PA (1875-1877). Afterward he served for four years as assistant pastor at Saint Mary's parish, Lawrence, MA, (1877-1881). The remaining years of his all too brief apostolate were spent as a professor of Latin and Greek at Villanova College. During this period, too, Father O’Reilly tended to the spiritual welfare of the parishioners of the Berwyn Mission. Known as a zealous laborer in the Lord’s vineyard he was deeply loved by the people.

He died in his room in the monastery on January 2, 1889, at the age of 39, and is buried in the monastery cemetery at Villanova University.

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