FR. KIERAN MONAHAN

I met Father Kieran when he was a patient in the hospital where I worked. We became fast friends and I was so very sorry when he left Serra Catholic. Father Kieran was a true disciple of Christ and personified love in its purest form. Godspeed dear friend, until we meet again.

I was fortunate to attend Serra Catholic High School when Fr. Kieran was Headmaster. He provided me with the personal guidance I needed to become a student athlete in college. He always made time for me and was always there looking out for all of his students. He helped prepare me for life beyond high school. He has made me a better man. I thank you for this. You are in my thoughts and prayers and are sadly missed.

Fr. Kieran was a true friend to our family. A wonderful, spiritual Headmaster during my years at Serra, and then a friend as I became an adult. One of my fondest memories is Father taking my husband and me all over Boston, then ending the day with a fabulous dinner at his favorite Italian restaurant.

Fr. Kieran was the Headmaster through my years at Serra. As I read all of the kind words, I think back to how lucky we were to be guided by him. We gave him a run for his money! But he took it all in stride. Fr. Kieran was wonderful to my family and we will miss him.

I will surely miss you ypu were a wonderful person you will allways be in my prayes

Cheryl

Thank you, Fr. Kieran for your influence and spiritual leadership. Great man. Great priest. Jesus finally said "get ova heeeer." God Bless and rest in peace.
- Mike Laffin, Serra '84, Allison Park, PA.

I was greatly saddened when I heard of Father Kiernan's passing. He was great teacher and an all around great guy. Father Kiernan was a great help and comfort when I lost my father my senior year in High School. He helped through that trying time and he was there to concelebrated my wedding mass. Thanks to Father Kiernan and all Friars who worked at Serra HS.

I sadly mourn the passing of Kieran Monahan. He was a great teacher who had a tremendous influence on me. I never knew that my career would include a ten year-long chapter as a high school math teacher. I recall that I had Fr. Kieran for Algebra I and Algebra II. Father Kieran was always present in my mind as a virtual mentor. Once, in 1976, I had dinner with Father Kieran somewhere in New York. He gave me the career advice that I was sorely needing. I quit the job I wasn't liking and started a new career in the computer industry. Serra High School definitely shaped my character and Father Kieran was a big part of that.

My first day at Serra in September of 1969 was also Fr Kieran's first day there teaching. He was a true man of integrity who loved God and loved people which is the greatest of all the commandments. He was a strong man and a strong influence on me and my classmates of Serra class of 1969.

Praying for the Greatest Comforter to be with his family as the Lord rejoices in their reunion.

My best memory will be and has always been his first speech to us when he became Headmaster...It started by Fr Kieran saying how much he liked the person in the mirror and that was his wish for us. Because if we like ourselves then it allows us to like others. Rest in peace and God bless!

I only heard today of the passing of
Fr. Kieran. All of the online entries said it best... he was a great man. He was my mentor and my dear friend. His convictions were just and you always knew where stood. He loved people and Serra High School. Fr. Kieran was one of the greatest influences in my life. He married me, baptized my two children and a member of my family. I will miss our long telephone calls, your visits to Florida, and your laugh.
Rest in peace my dear friend.

After reading the previous entries in this Guest Book, I am heartened to know that I was far from the only person whose life and faith were enriched by Fr. Kieran. His homily at Mass on the first day of school, 1981, resonated with me that day, that school year, and it will for the rest of my life. "I am responsible for my own actions." So true, and yet, so overlooked in today's culture. Fr. Kieran was in some ways ahead of his time. Yet his mantra is timeless. Whatsmore, Fr. Kieran didn't just speak those words, he LIVED them. He didn't shy away from those intimidating, imposing football players in the stands at Serra's basketball gymnasium who were hurling insults at the Serra cheerleaders...he charged up into the stands and challenged them to act more responsibly. Not in a confrontational way, but with the respect he expected, even demanded, be afforded "his" students. I echo the sentiments of many of those touched by Fr. Kieran, "Well done, good and faithful servant". May God grant you eternal rest and peace. You are special and you are loved.

Fr. Kieran was solid as a rock. What a great influence to me during my time at Serra. You always knew what was on his mind. I can still see him walking down the hall...keeping us in line. He was a larger than life presence and his leadership is missed.

Never have I met a person whose heart was so full of love. Truly an angel here on earth. I will always remember our Saturday suppers after mass and all that you taught us. How Blessed we were to have you in our life. Rest in Peace.

God bless Fr Kieran..I have many memories of sermons he gave that really made me think ...he made me a better person, a more devout Catholic...because of him, my days begin and end in a more spiritual way,,,thank you Father!

Father Kieran was such a huge influence during my years at Serra and in the community. I know that I am a better person for the time that I had with him and the time he shared with me. RIP Father Kieran you are loved and will be missed!

Sept 11 2001 Changed the world. The day after changed my life forever. As I sit at the Mckeesport FireStation today, I was informed that Fr. Kieran Monahan passed away. After reading his Obituary, i felt something was missing that needed to be shared. Just not sure how to tell this story. Fr. Was loved by many including the members of the FDNY Engine 24 Ladder 5 Battalion2. Where Fr. Shared manny morning cups of coffee. His St. Anthony s Church was a half block away from the Firehouse, seven blocks from the WTC. When the Towers fell Chris Cerci and I made our way to NYC. We were guided ( And I Truly Believe This ) to this Very Special Firehouse. At the time there were 11 firefighters missing from this house. Chris and my offer to help was greatly accepted by Capt Tony Varali and Firefighter Tony Sally-Tony Salerno. 6 years before the attack this Firehouse suffered a horrible loss at the Watts St Apt building Fire. FDNY Firefighters Jimmy Young and Chris Seidenberg were killed that night. Capt John Drennen died 40 days later form his Burns. When we introduced ourselves, their Eyes opened wide. Our offer to help was gladly accepted and we were put to work on Eng 24.We were shown bronze Memorial plaques bearing their names. We found out later that our arrival to this firehouse, at this time, had Devine intervention all over it.Their loss of Jimmy and Chris somehow came back to help thru Mck Firefighters Jimmy and Chris. Yes my name is Jimmy Young. 11 firefighters at the time, were missing, Constant 5 bells with announcement of a firefighters name lost, at WTC box number broadcasted over the fire alarm speaker. This may not seem like a big deal to friends reading it now, But it was Horrible to be in the FireStation and hear the names,over and over and over thru out the morning, 343 to be exact. No matter what you were doing, you stopped, paused and listened. I saw the fear and concern in the E24 L5 brothers eyes, fearing that will they be hearing the name of their guys. I use the word fear, hesitantly, because these men were fearless . Called The Bravest for a reason.! Families of the 11 missing were here at the firehouse now, 10 am. Moms Dads Uncles grandparents and Children, all asking questions I could not answer, waiting to hear.. Holding on to the hope of ... Chris and I were asked to go with FF Kelly to St. Anthony's Church to pick up tables and chairs to take over to the firehouse upstairs so if the 5 bells and WTC box announcement included one of the names of the 11, the Families wouldn't have to hear it, in this manner. They wanted the Families upstairs and this was very important. A Priest from St Anthony's would be over for guidance thru this horrible time. To comfort them, if that was even possible. A very difficult task for even the Pope. We made the half block trip to the Beautiful old HUGE stone St Anthony's Church. The Priest that met us at the door was old and gray / white haired. I was stunned when I recognized him. His first words out of diss-belief, were Young, I didn't know you were a firefighter up here. I explained I wasn't and that we made the trip from McKeesport this morning. His next words were , Are You Nutts.? Lol Fr. ,I never did make the deans list.Maybe Fr Joes dean of discipline. lol, Anyway Fr. You have your work cut out for you at the firehouse. FF Kelly's Jaw was on the ground. He said Fr Monahan you know this guy ? I gave him his High School diploma 20 years ago. I remember
Fr.s. words one of my students. and troublemaker in there, as well as my causing the Gray hair he now had. Our Brief reunion was naturally cut short by the huge task ahead, For both of us. Fr. met for hours with the firefighters and their families of the 11 lost that day, and was there to say goodbye as we boarded the bus for our first of many trips to ground zero, We got to share a brief cup of coffee the next morning, filling him in on the horror we encountered there. I never realized it then, but Fr. was helping me by just listenting. I got to spend time with Fr. at his favorite lunch spots. Sidewalk cafes around St Anthonys Church. during the six trips we made to the firehouse that year. We talked about Serra, caught him up on who was doing what and where. He was very proud of his time he spent at Serra and his impact he made on so many of us. He was very proud of his work in NYC. and with the FDNY who attended his masses regularly. He had this Idea of renting Church Sidewalk space to street vendors, That brought in 70 k per year to the church. He had to laugh, who would think in Greenwich Village a guy from BAAASton would be able to do this. Lol His masses were packed. He was exciting to listen to. He touched my life and many others, when I, and We, needed it the Most.He kept me in line at Serra, and I needed i,t Thank You Father Kiernan Monahan, Rest well my Brother. you earned it.

Fr. Kieran was a true man of God. It showed in all he did. I was his secretary at Serra Catholic for 10 years and he was a good friend to all of my family. Rest peacefully my good friend, you have truly earned your place in heaven.

Very sad to hear about Fr. Kieran. Thank you for your service at St. Peters and all the great works and accomplishments of your priesthood. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family.

Fr Kieran was a strong force in helping everyone who's life he touched. He counseled the teens & provided love when many were lost. He officiated at 2 of my children's weddings & several family funerals. Fr., rest well in the arms of you Heavenly Father & rejoice in the arms of your Dad & Mom. Love to all the family.

He was a wonderful man and served St. Peter's community well

God bless Father Kieran who was so kind to my family during our time of need (Serra years). He was a beloved friend and a wonderful priest.

Fr. Kieran purposefully supported me and so many students at Serra. It was so nice to have stayed in touch throughout the years. "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:21 We were thankful to have you in our lives. Our prayers to your family.

Fr. Kieran,was not only a headmaster but a family friend. He married my wife and I with 2 other priests 36 years ago, and baptized my son 27 years ago. He will be sorely missed.RIP my friend.

Our thoughts and prayers are for the family of Fr. Kieran. My brother and I knew him at Serra in the 1970s. He was a wonderful priest and great man whose kindness will reamin with us always.

Fr. Kieran has returned where he always belonged, heaven! I thank God for sharing him with us for all these years!

Thoughts and prayers to George, Bill, Jim and their cousin Nancy. He was a wonderful man from a great family. May the family take comfort in many fond memories, the joyous reunion with those gone before him and the knowledge that he will continue his ministry by watching over all of you.

Deepest sympathies to his family.He was a wonderful headmaster who always had a smile on his face! He will be missed.

My parents were so proud when their nephew became a priest. We all enjoyed attending your ordination. I will miss your thoughtfulness and guidance. Rest in Peace.

Fr. Kieran was the Headmaster for my first 2 years at Serra and had such an impact on my education. He was a kind and gently servant of the Lord.

Ft. Kieran was such a memorable part of my time at Serra. He was a true mentor and friend. There are so many fond memories I hold of him as the headmaster. I was blest to have him marry me. May God always be with you Fr. Kieran. We will love you always!

My entire family is saddened by your passing. You were a wonderful mentor, headmaster and friend. I feel blessed that my children also got to know you. My condolences to your friends and family. We will keep them in our prayers.

I remember Father Kieran from my days at Serra -- he was so full of energy. I always picture him striding along with purpose, vigor and good humor!

I remember well the excitement in Roslindale when Fr. Kieran was ordained.Knew your mom & dad well. I lived near Ita & John CAughey on Fletcher ST.,THe monahans were a lovely &caring family. A Iosa, dean trocaire at a anam dilish.( Gaelic for dear Jesus have mercy on his precious soul.). Amen.

Serra provides great memories for me. Father Kieran is a big part of those memories. He will always hold a special place in my heart.

Fr. Kieran was Headmaster during my 4-years at Serra. He was a strong man and true leader who I remember fondly. May his family find comfort in the many fond memories. Peace and God's blessings.

I am sadden to hear of Fr. Kieran's passing. As my headmaster at Serra, one thing he taught me that I have always remembered, is you alone are responsible for your actions.
May your family and friends find comfort with their memories. Rest in Peace.

My sincere condolences to the family. I was a student at Serra Catholic when Fr. Kieran was Headmaster. I remember him fondly.

My deepest sympathy to Fr. Kieran's family and friends. I have fond memories of him from my days at Serra Catholic. One of my earliest memories of High School was his teaching "I am responsible for my own decisions." at freshman orientation. It is a message I've tried to pass on to my own children. God Bless You, Father Kieran.

So sorry to hear of Fr. Kierans passing. I work at Serra Catholic and remember him fondly. He will be missed.

I was a student at Serra Catholic when Fr. Kieran was headmaster. May God be with his family and friends. So sorry for their loss.

He was such a wonderful priest. We really missed him when he left St. Peter's here in Portland. Our prayers are with his family and friends.

Fr. Kieran,

You will always live in our hearts and prayers. I will always remember how kind you were to us when we loss my Dad and how you reassured my children that their Grandfather got his wings when the bells rang. You were truly a gentle and kind man who will be missed.

May the angels welcome you to paradise, may the martyrs greet you on your way and may you have eternal rest.

Please give my Dad a hug from us.

With fond memories,

Denise O'Donnell

May the Lord's loving arms comfort you during this difficult time. My fond memories of Serra Catholic will always include Fr. Kieran,,, thanks for everything!

Still use your advice. I still miss you, but am glad to know that you are in heaven and resting comfortably.

So sorry for the loss of Fa. Kieran. I was a student of his at Serra Catholic in Mckeesport pa. Many fond memories, especially when he would crusie around in is K car looking for kids to "bust" at their "pahties"...........Such a nice man rip Fa Kieran. ....

Fr. Kieran was a great good friend to me and to my family as we each went through Serra High School. I am so grateful that God placed him in our lives- and to his family for sharing him. One of my favorite stories he would tell us is how he would "wrap" your Christmas presents in the brown bag. Of all the folks I have ever known, I am most confident that Fr. Kieran was greeted with a "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

Oh friend, my heart is broken - visit me in my dreams and watch over us mere mortals - we that knew you - know the Kingdom of God is yours.
Love forever,
Lisa

To my dear cousin Eddie,
What memories we shared together. We spent every holiday together growing up because that is all we had for family. Our mothers Maisie and Eileen, who were sisters our dads who were cousins John and Jack and the 4 boys and my brother Donal and myself. Such amazing stories were heard. I will miss you so much. You were a blessed man spreading the word of God each and every day.
Love Nancy

Fond memories of you will forever be in my heart.

We were blessed to have shared many spiritual moments and laughs with Fr. Kieran while he was at St. Peters. Our deepest sympathy to his family and his brothers and sisters in Christ.

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be satisfied.

Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the clean of heart,
for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.

You will be missed and never forgotten!