The Second Bishop of the Diocese of Orange in California, Monsignor Norman Francis McFarland was born in Contra Costa County in Martinez, California on February 21, 1922. He was the oldest of three sons born to Francis McFarland and Agnes Kotchevar.
Norman began his formal education in the public schools of Martinez. Feeling his vocation for the Priesthood, he entered Saint Joseph's Seminary in Mountain View as a clerical candidate for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. After completing his studies there, he went to Saint Patrick Major Seminary in Menlo Park where he earned his bachelor of arts degree in 1943, and then went on to complete the required courses in Scripture and theology. On June 15, 1946, Archbishop John J. Mitty ordained him to the priesthood.
Father Norman McFarland, age 24, became assistant pastor to Saint Andrew's parish in Oakland. After two years, Archbishop Mitty, who had a reputation for requiring special studies for his brightest and finest, sent Father McFarland to the Catholic University of American in Washington, D.C., where he earned a doctorate in canon law. Upon his return to San Francisco, he worked for many years in the Archdiocesan Chancery Office in Matrimonial Tribunal - primarily processing marriage cases. Besides these administrative activities, he helped out in the parishes where he resided. He furthermore taught at the San Francisco College for Women between 1951 and 1958, and served for a time as chaplain to the Cosmas and Damian Guild of Catholic Pharmacists.
On June 5, 1970, Pope Paul VI appointed forty-eight year old Monsignor McFarland, Auxiliary of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, receiving his episcopal consecration with the Titular See of Bida on the following September 8, from Archbishop Joseph Thomas McGucken, assisted by Bishops Hugh Aloysius Donohoe and Merlin Joseph Guilfoyle.
Bishop McFarland was then appointed him as vicar for finance, vicar for seminarians, and pastor of Old Mission Dolores (San Francisco de Asis). The following year, Bishop McFarland celebrated his silver anniversary as a priest. Four years later, on April 4, 1974, the Holy See sent Bishop McFarland as the administrator for Temporal Affairs to the Diocese of Reno, then encompassing the entire State of Nevada. That diocese was in a major crisis do to extremely poor investments.
Indeed, the Securities and Exchange Commission was demanding that it come up with $3.3 million in cash by April 12, or face bankruptcy proceedings. Bishop McFarland spent the next eight days on the phone, calling bishops around the country pleading for grants or low interest loans to bail them out. Thanks to his efforts and spirit of compassion and collegiality among the Bishops, he was able to raise four million dollars and meet the deadline. However, this amazing accomplishment was not the end of the problem. The diocese still faced millions of dollars in additional debt that also had to be paid, although the time requirements were not as immediate. McFarland continued searching for sources of financing to meet all these obligations. He was successful, but it would be ten years before the Diocese would be debt free. It was a long, painful, up-hill climb.
In the meantime, with the official retirement of his predecessor, Bishop McFarland was appointed the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Reno by Pope Paul VI on December 6, 1974. A little more than a year later, confident that the problems were in capable hands, the Holy Father appointed him Bishop of Reno. Archbishop Joseph McGuken, in the presence of Archbishop Jean Jadot, the Apostolic Delegate, formally installed him as such on March 31, 1976, in Reno's Pioneer Auditorium. It is unlikely anyone envied him, the position or the tasks that lay ahead.
Just the day before, Archbishop Jadot had announced the creation of the new Diocese of Orange.
Acknowledging the growth of the diocese and the centering of its population in the main cities to the north and the south, Bishop McFarland requested the Vatican to rename the Diocese, which it did on October 13, 1976, becoming the Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas. He tried to divide his time between the two major cities, but also travelled extensively throughout the 110,829 square mile state, visiting its far-flung parishes and missions. Besides travelling to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation, he made it a goal to spend weekends in different Parishes, where he celebrated Mass, preached, and showed his personal support for their priests and people.
Although he had to keep an eagle eye on the budget, he was careful not to jeopardize essential programs. In fact, he increased the number of projects aiding the less fortunate. Actually, during his tenure the budget for Catholic charities went from $360,000 to $4.5 million.
Bishop McFarland is also remembered for his many writings. He contributed articles to various newspapers and published, six times a year, the Frontier Shepherd, which provided a wealth of historical and pastoral information on the church in Nevada. He also delivered radio broadcasts reaching out to inactive Catholics and those with no religious affiliation. And he was known as a fearless promoter of Catholic values and a fierce opponent of any position contrary to them. After 12 years in Nevada, he had become a familiar part of the landscape. He was widely respected and admired, not only for rescuing the Diocese from its financial crisis, but also for putting it back on a solid basis and restoring its pastoral confidence. He had become, as he used to say, "a Nevadan by adoption and affection." He expected to spend the rest of his days there and was content with the prospect. By 1986, he had already been a priest for 40 years and a bBishop for 16. He had even secured a burial plot so his earthy remains would literally become one with the landscape he had grown to love.
Holy Mother Church, however, had other plans. Pope John Paul II appointed him the Second Bishop of Orange in California. The announcement came from Archbishop Pio Laghi, the Apostolic Pro Nuncio in Washington, D.C., on December 29, 1986. The installation ceremony was set for February 24, 1987, just three days after his 65th birthday. The new assignment was not a simple reward for a job-well-done in Nevada. It was a major challenge given to a person of proven abilities. The Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas had grown from 90,000 Catholics to 144,000 during his time there. He now faced a Catholic population of well over a half million - although compressed into an area 141 times smaller than Nevada. There would be no leisure ministry in the Diocese of Orange, but he would not have to travel so far to shepherd his abundant flock. It was something of an understatement when he first addressed it: "I greet you with a sense of anticipation and excitement." Whatever anxiety level he may have had, there was little chance that a man of his stature would shrink from the challenge.
On his first official visit to his new Diocese, Bishop McFarland paid a compliment to Bishop Johnson and declared his own intention: "It is my sincere hope that I may be able to build upon the solid foundation laid by the first Bishop of Orange whom we hold in fond memory, Bishop William Robert Johnson, your beloved shepherd and my dear friend."
Many people in Orange had never seen or heard of Bishop McFarland, but after their first encounter, it was unlikely they would ever forget him. At six foot five and 240 pounds he was definitely a Bishop to be looked up to. For many, the first introduction came by way of the various interviews and articles written about him at the time: "A big bear of a man with a full head of silver white hair…a shocking white cloud of hair…husky, white haired and bushy browned…a large man with a large personality…a physical and mental giant…he is a giant, especially with his mitre…He casts an imposing, but kind shadow… an impressive man…big physically and big intellectually…well read, an avid reader and prolific and eloquent writer…he's a bear…he's a big teddy bear… the Big Mac… the Absolute Norm… Stormin' Norman…one of a kind…a gentle marshmallow… affable…a good sense of humor…a colourful communicator…a real son of the Church…a doctrinal conservative…orthodox…ultra loyal to the Holy Father…a strong and sure leader… a very learned priest…a lovely man…a man of faith...a firm disciplinarian…stern and intimidating…startlingly blunt…fierce…a tornado waiting to happen…fearfully, wonderfully made…a very fine gentleman…everyone who knows him loves him…you couldn't say enough good things about him."
If he was unknown to many in Orange County, that certainly didn't last long. The mosaic of opinion that preceded him pictured an impressive person, not likely to be overlooked. On February 22, 1987, Bishop McFarland formally presented his credentials in the public ceremony of canonical possession at Holy Family Cathedral in Orange.
Two days later Archbishop Roger Mahony, in the presence of Cardinal Timothy Manning, installed Bishop Norman McFarland as the Second Bishop of Orange in ceremonies at the Bren Center of the University of California at Irvine. In his homily, Bishop McFarland reflected on the mission ahead for himself and the people of Orange: "Now it is our turn. To us who are the church of Orange, have been committed a sacred trust to emulate the faith and match the generosity of the past and build splendidly upon the foundation that has been laid."
The first decade of the Diocese under Bishop Johnson had been a time of formation and origination. For the next ten years, Bishop McFarland worked to strengthen, consolidate, and refine that work in what he liked to call "this favoured portion of the Lord's Vineyard." Although no one doubted his authority, he often joked that he was in sales, not management. He had a good product to sell, he said, and, like the best things in life, it was free. Of course the product was the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. It was no joke that this was the driving force that motivated his ministry as Bishop of Orange. He declared it was a pledge from the very beginning: "It is my firm resolve that Christ alone shall fire my speech and guide my service." Because of his outstanding administrative skills and successes, his pastoral care might be underappreciated. Aside from the fact that good administration is in itself an important pastoral service, Bishop McFarland spent many hours out of the office visiting parishes, administering confirmations, attending religious jubilees, supporting charitable causes, blessing and breaking ground for new church projects, dedicating completed projects, and making himself available for other pastoral requests.
A special example of his pastoral care stands out in his extensive writings that appeared regularly throughout the course of his ministry, in them he addressed a wide range of issues relevant both to an individual's spiritual journey, and also to the application of Christ's teaching to problems affecting the world at large. It is obvious these writings are the product of personal depth, careful reflection and a generous commitment of time. Many have found in them food for thought and soul from a bishop conscious of his pastoral teaching ministry.
On June 18, 1996, Bishop McFarland celebrated his golden anniversary as a priest and his silver anniversary as a bishop. Among the many well wishers who attended his Mass of Thanksgiving at Holy Family Cathedral were some 200 priests and religious and 44 bishops from around the country, including Cardinal Roger Mahony, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, and Bishop Tod Brown. Afterwards, at a large reception in is honour, he was thoroughly toasted and roasted by friends who thought correctly that is was now safe to do so.
In February of 1998, near the end of his time as Bishop of Orange, there was a very real danger that it might also be the end of his life. Doctors discovered a large aortic aneurysm in his abdomen, complicated by a weakened heart and lung condition. A three and a half hour surgery at Hoag Hospital proved a success. After an appropriate recovery period, he was again able to look forward to a reasonably healthy and enjoyable retirement.
Following his resignation at age 75, Bishop McFarland remained active carrying out successfully a declaration he made to priests in a final letter as Bishop of Orange: "I look forward to remaining in Peter's boat as it sails the See of Orange, doing whatever might be appropriate and useful." Asked once if he might be interested in a promotion to some other assignment after Orange, he responded that he hoped his next assignment would be heaven, since anything less would be a disappointment after Orange County.
McFarland died on Friday, April 16, 2010, aged 88, at his home in Orange of a cardiac arrest after a brief illness.
He was laid to rest in the ceremonial garb of a bishop, wearing white vestments, a ring, a pectoral cross around his neck and a miter.
Norman began his formal education in the public schools of Martinez. Feeling his vocation for the Priesthood, he entered Saint Joseph's Seminary in Mountain View as a clerical candidate for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. After completing his studies there, he went to Saint Patrick Major Seminary in Menlo Park where he earned his bachelor of arts degree in 1943, and then went on to complete the required courses in Scripture and theology. On June 15, 1946, Archbishop John J. Mitty ordained him to the priesthood.
Father Norman McFarland, age 24, became assistant pastor to Saint Andrew's parish in Oakland. After two years, Archbishop Mitty, who had a reputation for requiring special studies for his brightest and finest, sent Father McFarland to the Catholic University of American in Washington, D.C., where he earned a doctorate in canon law. Upon his return to San Francisco, he worked for many years in the Archdiocesan Chancery Office in Matrimonial Tribunal - primarily processing marriage cases. Besides these administrative activities, he helped out in the parishes where he resided. He furthermore taught at the San Francisco College for Women between 1951 and 1958, and served for a time as chaplain to the Cosmas and Damian Guild of Catholic Pharmacists.
On June 5, 1970, Pope Paul VI appointed forty-eight year old Monsignor McFarland, Auxiliary of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, receiving his episcopal consecration with the Titular See of Bida on the following September 8, from Archbishop Joseph Thomas McGucken, assisted by Bishops Hugh Aloysius Donohoe and Merlin Joseph Guilfoyle.
Bishop McFarland was then appointed him as vicar for finance, vicar for seminarians, and pastor of Old Mission Dolores (San Francisco de Asis). The following year, Bishop McFarland celebrated his silver anniversary as a priest. Four years later, on April 4, 1974, the Holy See sent Bishop McFarland as the administrator for Temporal Affairs to the Diocese of Reno, then encompassing the entire State of Nevada. That diocese was in a major crisis do to extremely poor investments.
Indeed, the Securities and Exchange Commission was demanding that it come up with $3.3 million in cash by April 12, or face bankruptcy proceedings. Bishop McFarland spent the next eight days on the phone, calling bishops around the country pleading for grants or low interest loans to bail them out. Thanks to his efforts and spirit of compassion and collegiality among the Bishops, he was able to raise four million dollars and meet the deadline. However, this amazing accomplishment was not the end of the problem. The diocese still faced millions of dollars in additional debt that also had to be paid, although the time requirements were not as immediate. McFarland continued searching for sources of financing to meet all these obligations. He was successful, but it would be ten years before the Diocese would be debt free. It was a long, painful, up-hill climb.
In the meantime, with the official retirement of his predecessor, Bishop McFarland was appointed the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Reno by Pope Paul VI on December 6, 1974. A little more than a year later, confident that the problems were in capable hands, the Holy Father appointed him Bishop of Reno. Archbishop Joseph McGuken, in the presence of Archbishop Jean Jadot, the Apostolic Delegate, formally installed him as such on March 31, 1976, in Reno's Pioneer Auditorium. It is unlikely anyone envied him, the position or the tasks that lay ahead.
Just the day before, Archbishop Jadot had announced the creation of the new Diocese of Orange.
Acknowledging the growth of the diocese and the centering of its population in the main cities to the north and the south, Bishop McFarland requested the Vatican to rename the Diocese, which it did on October 13, 1976, becoming the Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas. He tried to divide his time between the two major cities, but also travelled extensively throughout the 110,829 square mile state, visiting its far-flung parishes and missions. Besides travelling to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation, he made it a goal to spend weekends in different Parishes, where he celebrated Mass, preached, and showed his personal support for their priests and people.
Although he had to keep an eagle eye on the budget, he was careful not to jeopardize essential programs. In fact, he increased the number of projects aiding the less fortunate. Actually, during his tenure the budget for Catholic charities went from $360,000 to $4.5 million.
Bishop McFarland is also remembered for his many writings. He contributed articles to various newspapers and published, six times a year, the Frontier Shepherd, which provided a wealth of historical and pastoral information on the church in Nevada. He also delivered radio broadcasts reaching out to inactive Catholics and those with no religious affiliation. And he was known as a fearless promoter of Catholic values and a fierce opponent of any position contrary to them. After 12 years in Nevada, he had become a familiar part of the landscape. He was widely respected and admired, not only for rescuing the Diocese from its financial crisis, but also for putting it back on a solid basis and restoring its pastoral confidence. He had become, as he used to say, "a Nevadan by adoption and affection." He expected to spend the rest of his days there and was content with the prospect. By 1986, he had already been a priest for 40 years and a bBishop for 16. He had even secured a burial plot so his earthy remains would literally become one with the landscape he had grown to love.
Holy Mother Church, however, had other plans. Pope John Paul II appointed him the Second Bishop of Orange in California. The announcement came from Archbishop Pio Laghi, the Apostolic Pro Nuncio in Washington, D.C., on December 29, 1986. The installation ceremony was set for February 24, 1987, just three days after his 65th birthday. The new assignment was not a simple reward for a job-well-done in Nevada. It was a major challenge given to a person of proven abilities. The Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas had grown from 90,000 Catholics to 144,000 during his time there. He now faced a Catholic population of well over a half million - although compressed into an area 141 times smaller than Nevada. There would be no leisure ministry in the Diocese of Orange, but he would not have to travel so far to shepherd his abundant flock. It was something of an understatement when he first addressed it: "I greet you with a sense of anticipation and excitement." Whatever anxiety level he may have had, there was little chance that a man of his stature would shrink from the challenge.
On his first official visit to his new Diocese, Bishop McFarland paid a compliment to Bishop Johnson and declared his own intention: "It is my sincere hope that I may be able to build upon the solid foundation laid by the first Bishop of Orange whom we hold in fond memory, Bishop William Robert Johnson, your beloved shepherd and my dear friend."
Many people in Orange had never seen or heard of Bishop McFarland, but after their first encounter, it was unlikely they would ever forget him. At six foot five and 240 pounds he was definitely a Bishop to be looked up to. For many, the first introduction came by way of the various interviews and articles written about him at the time: "A big bear of a man with a full head of silver white hair…a shocking white cloud of hair…husky, white haired and bushy browned…a large man with a large personality…a physical and mental giant…he is a giant, especially with his mitre…He casts an imposing, but kind shadow… an impressive man…big physically and big intellectually…well read, an avid reader and prolific and eloquent writer…he's a bear…he's a big teddy bear… the Big Mac… the Absolute Norm… Stormin' Norman…one of a kind…a gentle marshmallow… affable…a good sense of humor…a colourful communicator…a real son of the Church…a doctrinal conservative…orthodox…ultra loyal to the Holy Father…a strong and sure leader… a very learned priest…a lovely man…a man of faith...a firm disciplinarian…stern and intimidating…startlingly blunt…fierce…a tornado waiting to happen…fearfully, wonderfully made…a very fine gentleman…everyone who knows him loves him…you couldn't say enough good things about him."
If he was unknown to many in Orange County, that certainly didn't last long. The mosaic of opinion that preceded him pictured an impressive person, not likely to be overlooked. On February 22, 1987, Bishop McFarland formally presented his credentials in the public ceremony of canonical possession at Holy Family Cathedral in Orange.
Two days later Archbishop Roger Mahony, in the presence of Cardinal Timothy Manning, installed Bishop Norman McFarland as the Second Bishop of Orange in ceremonies at the Bren Center of the University of California at Irvine. In his homily, Bishop McFarland reflected on the mission ahead for himself and the people of Orange: "Now it is our turn. To us who are the church of Orange, have been committed a sacred trust to emulate the faith and match the generosity of the past and build splendidly upon the foundation that has been laid."
The first decade of the Diocese under Bishop Johnson had been a time of formation and origination. For the next ten years, Bishop McFarland worked to strengthen, consolidate, and refine that work in what he liked to call "this favoured portion of the Lord's Vineyard." Although no one doubted his authority, he often joked that he was in sales, not management. He had a good product to sell, he said, and, like the best things in life, it was free. Of course the product was the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. It was no joke that this was the driving force that motivated his ministry as Bishop of Orange. He declared it was a pledge from the very beginning: "It is my firm resolve that Christ alone shall fire my speech and guide my service." Because of his outstanding administrative skills and successes, his pastoral care might be underappreciated. Aside from the fact that good administration is in itself an important pastoral service, Bishop McFarland spent many hours out of the office visiting parishes, administering confirmations, attending religious jubilees, supporting charitable causes, blessing and breaking ground for new church projects, dedicating completed projects, and making himself available for other pastoral requests.
A special example of his pastoral care stands out in his extensive writings that appeared regularly throughout the course of his ministry, in them he addressed a wide range of issues relevant both to an individual's spiritual journey, and also to the application of Christ's teaching to problems affecting the world at large. It is obvious these writings are the product of personal depth, careful reflection and a generous commitment of time. Many have found in them food for thought and soul from a bishop conscious of his pastoral teaching ministry.
On June 18, 1996, Bishop McFarland celebrated his golden anniversary as a priest and his silver anniversary as a bishop. Among the many well wishers who attended his Mass of Thanksgiving at Holy Family Cathedral were some 200 priests and religious and 44 bishops from around the country, including Cardinal Roger Mahony, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, and Bishop Tod Brown. Afterwards, at a large reception in is honour, he was thoroughly toasted and roasted by friends who thought correctly that is was now safe to do so.
In February of 1998, near the end of his time as Bishop of Orange, there was a very real danger that it might also be the end of his life. Doctors discovered a large aortic aneurysm in his abdomen, complicated by a weakened heart and lung condition. A three and a half hour surgery at Hoag Hospital proved a success. After an appropriate recovery period, he was again able to look forward to a reasonably healthy and enjoyable retirement.
Following his resignation at age 75, Bishop McFarland remained active carrying out successfully a declaration he made to priests in a final letter as Bishop of Orange: "I look forward to remaining in Peter's boat as it sails the See of Orange, doing whatever might be appropriate and useful." Asked once if he might be interested in a promotion to some other assignment after Orange, he responded that he hoped his next assignment would be heaven, since anything less would be a disappointment after Orange County.
McFarland died on Friday, April 16, 2010, aged 88, at his home in Orange of a cardiac arrest after a brief illness.
He was laid to rest in the ceremonial garb of a bishop, wearing white vestments, a ring, a pectoral cross around his neck and a miter.
The Second Bishop of the Diocese of Orange in California, Monsignor Norman Francis McFarland was born in Contra Costa County in Martinez, California on February 21, 1922. He was the oldest of three sons born to Francis McFarland and Agnes Kotchevar.
Norman began his formal education in the public schools of Martinez. Feeling his vocation for the Priesthood, he entered Saint Joseph's Seminary in Mountain View as a clerical candidate for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. After completing his studies there, he went to Saint Patrick Major Seminary in Menlo Park where he earned his bachelor of arts degree in 1943, and then went on to complete the required courses in Scripture and theology. On June 15, 1946, Archbishop John J. Mitty ordained him to the priesthood.
Father Norman McFarland, age 24, became assistant pastor to Saint Andrew's parish in Oakland. After two years, Archbishop Mitty, who had a reputation for requiring special studies for his brightest and finest, sent Father McFarland to the Catholic University of American in Washington, D.C., where he earned a doctorate in canon law. Upon his return to San Francisco, he worked for many years in the Archdiocesan Chancery Office in Matrimonial Tribunal - primarily processing marriage cases. Besides these administrative activities, he helped out in the parishes where he resided. He furthermore taught at the San Francisco College for Women between 1951 and 1958, and served for a time as chaplain to the Cosmas and Damian Guild of Catholic Pharmacists.
On June 5, 1970, Pope Paul VI appointed forty-eight year old Monsignor McFarland, Auxiliary of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, receiving his episcopal consecration with the Titular See of Bida on the following September 8, from Archbishop Joseph Thomas McGucken, assisted by Bishops Hugh Aloysius Donohoe and Merlin Joseph Guilfoyle.
Bishop McFarland was then appointed him as vicar for finance, vicar for seminarians, and pastor of Old Mission Dolores (San Francisco de Asis). The following year, Bishop McFarland celebrated his silver anniversary as a priest. Four years later, on April 4, 1974, the Holy See sent Bishop McFarland as the administrator for Temporal Affairs to the Diocese of Reno, then encompassing the entire State of Nevada. That diocese was in a major crisis do to extremely poor investments.
Indeed, the Securities and Exchange Commission was demanding that it come up with $3.3 million in cash by April 12, or face bankruptcy proceedings. Bishop McFarland spent the next eight days on the phone, calling bishops around the country pleading for grants or low interest loans to bail them out. Thanks to his efforts and spirit of compassion and collegiality among the Bishops, he was able to raise four million dollars and meet the deadline. However, this amazing accomplishment was not the end of the problem. The diocese still faced millions of dollars in additional debt that also had to be paid, although the time requirements were not as immediate. McFarland continued searching for sources of financing to meet all these obligations. He was successful, but it would be ten years before the Diocese would be debt free. It was a long, painful, up-hill climb.
In the meantime, with the official retirement of his predecessor, Bishop McFarland was appointed the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Reno by Pope Paul VI on December 6, 1974. A little more than a year later, confident that the problems were in capable hands, the Holy Father appointed him Bishop of Reno. Archbishop Joseph McGuken, in the presence of Archbishop Jean Jadot, the Apostolic Delegate, formally installed him as such on March 31, 1976, in Reno's Pioneer Auditorium. It is unlikely anyone envied him, the position or the tasks that lay ahead.
Just the day before, Archbishop Jadot had announced the creation of the new Diocese of Orange.
Acknowledging the growth of the diocese and the centering of its population in the main cities to the north and the south, Bishop McFarland requested the Vatican to rename the Diocese, which it did on October 13, 1976, becoming the Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas. He tried to divide his time between the two major cities, but also travelled extensively throughout the 110,829 square mile state, visiting its far-flung parishes and missions. Besides travelling to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation, he made it a goal to spend weekends in different Parishes, where he celebrated Mass, preached, and showed his personal support for their priests and people.
Although he had to keep an eagle eye on the budget, he was careful not to jeopardize essential programs. In fact, he increased the number of projects aiding the less fortunate. Actually, during his tenure the budget for Catholic charities went from $360,000 to $4.5 million.
Bishop McFarland is also remembered for his many writings. He contributed articles to various newspapers and published, six times a year, the Frontier Shepherd, which provided a wealth of historical and pastoral information on the church in Nevada. He also delivered radio broadcasts reaching out to inactive Catholics and those with no religious affiliation. And he was known as a fearless promoter of Catholic values and a fierce opponent of any position contrary to them. After 12 years in Nevada, he had become a familiar part of the landscape. He was widely respected and admired, not only for rescuing the Diocese from its financial crisis, but also for putting it back on a solid basis and restoring its pastoral confidence. He had become, as he used to say, "a Nevadan by adoption and affection." He expected to spend the rest of his days there and was content with the prospect. By 1986, he had already been a priest for 40 years and a bBishop for 16. He had even secured a burial plot so his earthy remains would literally become one with the landscape he had grown to love.
Holy Mother Church, however, had other plans. Pope John Paul II appointed him the Second Bishop of Orange in California. The announcement came from Archbishop Pio Laghi, the Apostolic Pro Nuncio in Washington, D.C., on December 29, 1986. The installation ceremony was set for February 24, 1987, just three days after his 65th birthday. The new assignment was not a simple reward for a job-well-done in Nevada. It was a major challenge given to a person of proven abilities. The Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas had grown from 90,000 Catholics to 144,000 during his time there. He now faced a Catholic population of well over a half million - although compressed into an area 141 times smaller than Nevada. There would be no leisure ministry in the Diocese of Orange, but he would not have to travel so far to shepherd his abundant flock. It was something of an understatement when he first addressed it: "I greet you with a sense of anticipation and excitement." Whatever anxiety level he may have had, there was little chance that a man of his stature would shrink from the challenge.
On his first official visit to his new Diocese, Bishop McFarland paid a compliment to Bishop Johnson and declared his own intention: "It is my sincere hope that I may be able to build upon the solid foundation laid by the first Bishop of Orange whom we hold in fond memory, Bishop William Robert Johnson, your beloved shepherd and my dear friend."
Many people in Orange had never seen or heard of Bishop McFarland, but after their first encounter, it was unlikely they would ever forget him. At six foot five and 240 pounds he was definitely a Bishop to be looked up to. For many, the first introduction came by way of the various interviews and articles written about him at the time: "A big bear of a man with a full head of silver white hair…a shocking white cloud of hair…husky, white haired and bushy browned…a large man with a large personality…a physical and mental giant…he is a giant, especially with his mitre…He casts an imposing, but kind shadow… an impressive man…big physically and big intellectually…well read, an avid reader and prolific and eloquent writer…he's a bear…he's a big teddy bear… the Big Mac… the Absolute Norm… Stormin' Norman…one of a kind…a gentle marshmallow… affable…a good sense of humor…a colourful communicator…a real son of the Church…a doctrinal conservative…orthodox…ultra loyal to the Holy Father…a strong and sure leader… a very learned priest…a lovely man…a man of faith...a firm disciplinarian…stern and intimidating…startlingly blunt…fierce…a tornado waiting to happen…fearfully, wonderfully made…a very fine gentleman…everyone who knows him loves him…you couldn't say enough good things about him."
If he was unknown to many in Orange County, that certainly didn't last long. The mosaic of opinion that preceded him pictured an impressive person, not likely to be overlooked. On February 22, 1987, Bishop McFarland formally presented his credentials in the public ceremony of canonical possession at Holy Family Cathedral in Orange.
Two days later Archbishop Roger Mahony, in the presence of Cardinal Timothy Manning, installed Bishop Norman McFarland as the Second Bishop of Orange in ceremonies at the Bren Center of the University of California at Irvine. In his homily, Bishop McFarland reflected on the mission ahead for himself and the people of Orange: "Now it is our turn. To us who are the church of Orange, have been committed a sacred trust to emulate the faith and match the generosity of the past and build splendidly upon the foundation that has been laid."
The first decade of the Diocese under Bishop Johnson had been a time of formation and origination. For the next ten years, Bishop McFarland worked to strengthen, consolidate, and refine that work in what he liked to call "this favoured portion of the Lord's Vineyard." Although no one doubted his authority, he often joked that he was in sales, not management. He had a good product to sell, he said, and, like the best things in life, it was free. Of course the product was the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. It was no joke that this was the driving force that motivated his ministry as Bishop of Orange. He declared it was a pledge from the very beginning: "It is my firm resolve that Christ alone shall fire my speech and guide my service." Because of his outstanding administrative skills and successes, his pastoral care might be underappreciated. Aside from the fact that good administration is in itself an important pastoral service, Bishop McFarland spent many hours out of the office visiting parishes, administering confirmations, attending religious jubilees, supporting charitable causes, blessing and breaking ground for new church projects, dedicating completed projects, and making himself available for other pastoral requests.
A special example of his pastoral care stands out in his extensive writings that appeared regularly throughout the course of his ministry, in them he addressed a wide range of issues relevant both to an individual's spiritual journey, and also to the application of Christ's teaching to problems affecting the world at large. It is obvious these writings are the product of personal depth, careful reflection and a generous commitment of time. Many have found in them food for thought and soul from a bishop conscious of his pastoral teaching ministry.
On June 18, 1996, Bishop McFarland celebrated his golden anniversary as a priest and his silver anniversary as a bishop. Among the many well wishers who attended his Mass of Thanksgiving at Holy Family Cathedral were some 200 priests and religious and 44 bishops from around the country, including Cardinal Roger Mahony, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, and Bishop Tod Brown. Afterwards, at a large reception in is honour, he was thoroughly toasted and roasted by friends who thought correctly that is was now safe to do so.
In February of 1998, near the end of his time as Bishop of Orange, there was a very real danger that it might also be the end of his life. Doctors discovered a large aortic aneurysm in his abdomen, complicated by a weakened heart and lung condition. A three and a half hour surgery at Hoag Hospital proved a success. After an appropriate recovery period, he was again able to look forward to a reasonably healthy and enjoyable retirement.
Following his resignation at age 75, Bishop McFarland remained active carrying out successfully a declaration he made to priests in a final letter as Bishop of Orange: "I look forward to remaining in Peter's boat as it sails the See of Orange, doing whatever might be appropriate and useful." Asked once if he might be interested in a promotion to some other assignment after Orange, he responded that he hoped his next assignment would be heaven, since anything less would be a disappointment after Orange County.
McFarland died on Friday, April 16, 2010, aged 88, at his home in Orange of a cardiac arrest after a brief illness.
He was laid to rest in the ceremonial garb of a bishop, wearing white vestments, a ring, a pectoral cross around his neck and a miter.
Norman began his formal education in the public schools of Martinez. Feeling his vocation for the Priesthood, he entered Saint Joseph's Seminary in Mountain View as a clerical candidate for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. After completing his studies there, he went to Saint Patrick Major Seminary in Menlo Park where he earned his bachelor of arts degree in 1943, and then went on to complete the required courses in Scripture and theology. On June 15, 1946, Archbishop John J. Mitty ordained him to the priesthood.
Father Norman McFarland, age 24, became assistant pastor to Saint Andrew's parish in Oakland. After two years, Archbishop Mitty, who had a reputation for requiring special studies for his brightest and finest, sent Father McFarland to the Catholic University of American in Washington, D.C., where he earned a doctorate in canon law. Upon his return to San Francisco, he worked for many years in the Archdiocesan Chancery Office in Matrimonial Tribunal - primarily processing marriage cases. Besides these administrative activities, he helped out in the parishes where he resided. He furthermore taught at the San Francisco College for Women between 1951 and 1958, and served for a time as chaplain to the Cosmas and Damian Guild of Catholic Pharmacists.
On June 5, 1970, Pope Paul VI appointed forty-eight year old Monsignor McFarland, Auxiliary of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, receiving his episcopal consecration with the Titular See of Bida on the following September 8, from Archbishop Joseph Thomas McGucken, assisted by Bishops Hugh Aloysius Donohoe and Merlin Joseph Guilfoyle.
Bishop McFarland was then appointed him as vicar for finance, vicar for seminarians, and pastor of Old Mission Dolores (San Francisco de Asis). The following year, Bishop McFarland celebrated his silver anniversary as a priest. Four years later, on April 4, 1974, the Holy See sent Bishop McFarland as the administrator for Temporal Affairs to the Diocese of Reno, then encompassing the entire State of Nevada. That diocese was in a major crisis do to extremely poor investments.
Indeed, the Securities and Exchange Commission was demanding that it come up with $3.3 million in cash by April 12, or face bankruptcy proceedings. Bishop McFarland spent the next eight days on the phone, calling bishops around the country pleading for grants or low interest loans to bail them out. Thanks to his efforts and spirit of compassion and collegiality among the Bishops, he was able to raise four million dollars and meet the deadline. However, this amazing accomplishment was not the end of the problem. The diocese still faced millions of dollars in additional debt that also had to be paid, although the time requirements were not as immediate. McFarland continued searching for sources of financing to meet all these obligations. He was successful, but it would be ten years before the Diocese would be debt free. It was a long, painful, up-hill climb.
In the meantime, with the official retirement of his predecessor, Bishop McFarland was appointed the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Reno by Pope Paul VI on December 6, 1974. A little more than a year later, confident that the problems were in capable hands, the Holy Father appointed him Bishop of Reno. Archbishop Joseph McGuken, in the presence of Archbishop Jean Jadot, the Apostolic Delegate, formally installed him as such on March 31, 1976, in Reno's Pioneer Auditorium. It is unlikely anyone envied him, the position or the tasks that lay ahead.
Just the day before, Archbishop Jadot had announced the creation of the new Diocese of Orange.
Acknowledging the growth of the diocese and the centering of its population in the main cities to the north and the south, Bishop McFarland requested the Vatican to rename the Diocese, which it did on October 13, 1976, becoming the Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas. He tried to divide his time between the two major cities, but also travelled extensively throughout the 110,829 square mile state, visiting its far-flung parishes and missions. Besides travelling to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation, he made it a goal to spend weekends in different Parishes, where he celebrated Mass, preached, and showed his personal support for their priests and people.
Although he had to keep an eagle eye on the budget, he was careful not to jeopardize essential programs. In fact, he increased the number of projects aiding the less fortunate. Actually, during his tenure the budget for Catholic charities went from $360,000 to $4.5 million.
Bishop McFarland is also remembered for his many writings. He contributed articles to various newspapers and published, six times a year, the Frontier Shepherd, which provided a wealth of historical and pastoral information on the church in Nevada. He also delivered radio broadcasts reaching out to inactive Catholics and those with no religious affiliation. And he was known as a fearless promoter of Catholic values and a fierce opponent of any position contrary to them. After 12 years in Nevada, he had become a familiar part of the landscape. He was widely respected and admired, not only for rescuing the Diocese from its financial crisis, but also for putting it back on a solid basis and restoring its pastoral confidence. He had become, as he used to say, "a Nevadan by adoption and affection." He expected to spend the rest of his days there and was content with the prospect. By 1986, he had already been a priest for 40 years and a bBishop for 16. He had even secured a burial plot so his earthy remains would literally become one with the landscape he had grown to love.
Holy Mother Church, however, had other plans. Pope John Paul II appointed him the Second Bishop of Orange in California. The announcement came from Archbishop Pio Laghi, the Apostolic Pro Nuncio in Washington, D.C., on December 29, 1986. The installation ceremony was set for February 24, 1987, just three days after his 65th birthday. The new assignment was not a simple reward for a job-well-done in Nevada. It was a major challenge given to a person of proven abilities. The Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas had grown from 90,000 Catholics to 144,000 during his time there. He now faced a Catholic population of well over a half million - although compressed into an area 141 times smaller than Nevada. There would be no leisure ministry in the Diocese of Orange, but he would not have to travel so far to shepherd his abundant flock. It was something of an understatement when he first addressed it: "I greet you with a sense of anticipation and excitement." Whatever anxiety level he may have had, there was little chance that a man of his stature would shrink from the challenge.
On his first official visit to his new Diocese, Bishop McFarland paid a compliment to Bishop Johnson and declared his own intention: "It is my sincere hope that I may be able to build upon the solid foundation laid by the first Bishop of Orange whom we hold in fond memory, Bishop William Robert Johnson, your beloved shepherd and my dear friend."
Many people in Orange had never seen or heard of Bishop McFarland, but after their first encounter, it was unlikely they would ever forget him. At six foot five and 240 pounds he was definitely a Bishop to be looked up to. For many, the first introduction came by way of the various interviews and articles written about him at the time: "A big bear of a man with a full head of silver white hair…a shocking white cloud of hair…husky, white haired and bushy browned…a large man with a large personality…a physical and mental giant…he is a giant, especially with his mitre…He casts an imposing, but kind shadow… an impressive man…big physically and big intellectually…well read, an avid reader and prolific and eloquent writer…he's a bear…he's a big teddy bear… the Big Mac… the Absolute Norm… Stormin' Norman…one of a kind…a gentle marshmallow… affable…a good sense of humor…a colourful communicator…a real son of the Church…a doctrinal conservative…orthodox…ultra loyal to the Holy Father…a strong and sure leader… a very learned priest…a lovely man…a man of faith...a firm disciplinarian…stern and intimidating…startlingly blunt…fierce…a tornado waiting to happen…fearfully, wonderfully made…a very fine gentleman…everyone who knows him loves him…you couldn't say enough good things about him."
If he was unknown to many in Orange County, that certainly didn't last long. The mosaic of opinion that preceded him pictured an impressive person, not likely to be overlooked. On February 22, 1987, Bishop McFarland formally presented his credentials in the public ceremony of canonical possession at Holy Family Cathedral in Orange.
Two days later Archbishop Roger Mahony, in the presence of Cardinal Timothy Manning, installed Bishop Norman McFarland as the Second Bishop of Orange in ceremonies at the Bren Center of the University of California at Irvine. In his homily, Bishop McFarland reflected on the mission ahead for himself and the people of Orange: "Now it is our turn. To us who are the church of Orange, have been committed a sacred trust to emulate the faith and match the generosity of the past and build splendidly upon the foundation that has been laid."
The first decade of the Diocese under Bishop Johnson had been a time of formation and origination. For the next ten years, Bishop McFarland worked to strengthen, consolidate, and refine that work in what he liked to call "this favoured portion of the Lord's Vineyard." Although no one doubted his authority, he often joked that he was in sales, not management. He had a good product to sell, he said, and, like the best things in life, it was free. Of course the product was the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. It was no joke that this was the driving force that motivated his ministry as Bishop of Orange. He declared it was a pledge from the very beginning: "It is my firm resolve that Christ alone shall fire my speech and guide my service." Because of his outstanding administrative skills and successes, his pastoral care might be underappreciated. Aside from the fact that good administration is in itself an important pastoral service, Bishop McFarland spent many hours out of the office visiting parishes, administering confirmations, attending religious jubilees, supporting charitable causes, blessing and breaking ground for new church projects, dedicating completed projects, and making himself available for other pastoral requests.
A special example of his pastoral care stands out in his extensive writings that appeared regularly throughout the course of his ministry, in them he addressed a wide range of issues relevant both to an individual's spiritual journey, and also to the application of Christ's teaching to problems affecting the world at large. It is obvious these writings are the product of personal depth, careful reflection and a generous commitment of time. Many have found in them food for thought and soul from a bishop conscious of his pastoral teaching ministry.
On June 18, 1996, Bishop McFarland celebrated his golden anniversary as a priest and his silver anniversary as a bishop. Among the many well wishers who attended his Mass of Thanksgiving at Holy Family Cathedral were some 200 priests and religious and 44 bishops from around the country, including Cardinal Roger Mahony, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, and Bishop Tod Brown. Afterwards, at a large reception in is honour, he was thoroughly toasted and roasted by friends who thought correctly that is was now safe to do so.
In February of 1998, near the end of his time as Bishop of Orange, there was a very real danger that it might also be the end of his life. Doctors discovered a large aortic aneurysm in his abdomen, complicated by a weakened heart and lung condition. A three and a half hour surgery at Hoag Hospital proved a success. After an appropriate recovery period, he was again able to look forward to a reasonably healthy and enjoyable retirement.
Following his resignation at age 75, Bishop McFarland remained active carrying out successfully a declaration he made to priests in a final letter as Bishop of Orange: "I look forward to remaining in Peter's boat as it sails the See of Orange, doing whatever might be appropriate and useful." Asked once if he might be interested in a promotion to some other assignment after Orange, he responded that he hoped his next assignment would be heaven, since anything less would be a disappointment after Orange County.
McFarland died on Friday, April 16, 2010, aged 88, at his home in Orange of a cardiac arrest after a brief illness.
He was laid to rest in the ceremonial garb of a bishop, wearing white vestments, a ring, a pectoral cross around his neck and a miter.
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