3rd Bishop of Fort Wayne Ordained Aug. 2, 1863 consecrated June 24, 1883
Joseph Rademacher, R. C. bishop, was born in Westphalia, Mich., Dec. 3, 1840. He studied for the priesthood in St. Michael's seminary, Pittsburg, Pa., and was ordained, Aug. 2, 1863, by Bishop Luers of Fort Wayne, Ind. He was pastor of St. Francis's, Attica, Ind., 1863?69, where he also attended St. Joseph's mission at Marshfield; was pastor of St. Paul of the Cross, Columbia city, 1869?76; of St. Mary's, Fort Wayne, Ind., and chancellor of the diocese, 1877?80.
He was rector of St. Mary's, Lafayette, Ind., 1880?83; was nominated to the see of Nashville, Tenn., April 21, 1883, and was consecrated in St. Mary's cathedral, Nashville, Tenn., June 24, 1883, by Archbishop Feehan of Chicago, Ill., assisted by Bishop Chatard and Bishop Borgess. He labored successfully in that diocese until transferred to the diocese of Fort Wayne, by pontifical letter dated, July 14, 1893, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Bishop Joseph Dwenger . Jan. 29, 1893. He resigned November, 1899, and died at Fort Wayne, Ind., Jan. 12, 1900.
From: Twentieth Century Biographical Dictionary of Notable Americans, Johnson, Rossiter, editor
----------------------------
BISHOP RADEMACHER DEAD.
Noted Divine Passes Away After a Long and Painful Illness.
Glowing Tribute Paid to His Memory by Bishop Horstmann.
The Right Rev. Jos. E. Rademacher, third bishop of the diocese of Fort Wayne, died at 11:25 Friday, Jan. 12. The disabilities of the bishop have been serious for a year past, although his last illness did not set in until a few weeks ago. He was born Dec. 3, 1840, in Westphalia, Clinton county, Mich. At the age of 15 he went to St. Vincent's college in Latrobe, Pa., and a few years later graduated from St. Michael's seminary in Pittsburg. He then came to Fort Wayne, and on Aug. 2, 1863, was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Luers, the first bishop of Fort Wayne. His first charge was at Attica, Ind. He was next sent to Columbia City, and was later appointed pastor of St. Mary's church in Chicago. It was while filling this charge that he was appointed diocesan chancellor.
"In 1880 he was called to St. Mary's church, Lafayette, and June 24, 1883, was consecrated bishop of Nashville, to succeed Right Rev. Bishop Feehan. In 1889 he was one of the two American prelates who made the pilgrimage to Palestine, and was the only one to accompany the pilgrims on the entire journey. On July 13, 1893, Pope Leo XIII appointed him bishop of Fort Wayne to succeed Bishop Dwenger, and he was installed Oct. 4 of the same year. His work has been most satisfactory, and it is believed that his decline was caused by too assiduous attention to the business affairs of the diocese."
The funeral was held at Fort Wayne on Tuesday, Jan. 16, and the remains laid beneath the altar of the Fort Wayne cathedral, beside those of his predecessors. The funeral services were very impressive and the deep solemnity of every surrounding and the sublime grandeur of the funeral service of the Catholic church combined to make the occasion one that will long be remembered by those who witnessed it. The venerable Archbishop Elder, of the archdiocese of Cincinnati, was the celebrant for the pontifical requiem high mass, one of the most impressive in the liturgy of the Catholic church. It is only celebrated by a bishop or an archbishop. Assiting the archbishop were Very Rev. J. H. Guendling, V. G., as assistant priest, Rev. John Bleckmann as deacon of the mass, Rev. J. H. Bathe as sub-deacon of the mass, Rev. J. Guendling and Rev. J. F. Delaney as assistant deacons, Rev. W. J. Quinlan, Rev. C. B. Guendling and Rev. John Durham as masters of ceremonies, Rev. P. J. O'Reiley and Rev. F. X. LeBonte as acolytes, Rev. John Noll as bookbearer, Rev. P. J. Crawley as candlebearer, Rev. F. Fontaine as mitrebearer, and Rev. F. C. Kellar as gremiale.
Bishop Horstman's Tribute
Rt. Rev. Ignatius Horstmann, D. D., bishop of Cleveland, delivered the funeral discourse. It was a brief, but touching, tribute to the greatness and exemplary qualities of Bishop Rademacher. The open casket just below the pulpit on which Bishop Horstmann spoke seemed to appeal deeply to the bishop as he spoke, and his emotion was plainly evident.
Bishop Hortsmann chose his text from the first chapter of St. Luke's gospel; the words as follows: "My soul doeth magnify the Lord, and my spirit oath rejoiced in God, my Savior. He that is mighty hath done great things for me, and holy is His name."
In opening the bishop said: "We were in the midst of joyful, happy Christmas time. We were singing glory to God on high and on earth peace and goodwill to men. We have seen the magi coming from the east to Bethlehem. We have entered with them and found the Child with Mary, the mother. In the midst of these joyful celebrations the angel of death calls your leader, your shepherd, to his peace and to his reward. For him death was a happy release. For him it could have no terrors. At its call he was ready to answer, 'present.' He has already given an account of his stewardship. I received the sad news in Philadelphia. I hurried home and there was a letter telling me of his last hours. In my soul I spoke to God -- His mercy is from generation to generation. He has received Israel his servant.
"From the time he was stricken down I had one prayer -- Lord, give him his mind, that he might enter the kingdom as he would wish. God granted that prayer as he does the prayers of those that love him. Praise be to God." The bishop referred to the death of a sister who was recently found when life had expired, the crucifix pressed to her heart with both hands, showing her last prayer to have been, "Jesus have mercy on me." That was a beautiful death of all who cling steadfastly to the faith of Jesus.
"Death is always terrible, because after it come the judgment. Death is always sad, for it means the separation of links which have bound us to the happiness of the years. We, his brethern [sic] of the bishopric, will miss him, we will miss his wise counsels, his gentle and affable companionship and his unfaltering devotion. You, priests of the diocese of Fort Wayne, will miss him, and you must always remember him as your father and best friend. A man of real piety, of zeal, of self-sacrifice and devotion to his duty and his work; a man who realized his duty and always endeavored to follow it.
"We are surrounded by mystery, and the greatest of mysteries is human life. So also is its companion -- death. When a little more than a year ago the news came to us that your bishop was stricken, it came like a flash from a clear sky. At the meeting of bishops in 1893 had I been asked to say who be the first to be called by death I should have unhesitatingly said, 'Myself.' Had I been asked who would be the last, I should have answered, 'Bishop Rademacher.' He was then the type of physical health. But what a change; how sorrowful to him has been this last year. Take ye admonition and see ye the Lord while He may be found.
"Whatsoever God does He does for those who love Him. Why, then, shall we weep? Mourn not as those who have no hope. The Lord is the Christian's rock of hope and triumph. Stand steadfast and immovable, abounding in the work of God."
Gazing down on the lifeless form before him, Bishop Horstmann said:
"Is it not fitting that I, in the presence of that venerated body, should speak of his life and works. That should be done by one who knew him better, and I know that could he speak he would forbid it and ask rather for a prayer. There is one great lesson of death; it is not new; it is the same old story, as old as history. When he beckons with his long bony finger we must go with him. Today for me; tomorrow for thee. The one great lesson of death is to teach us all to be ready. The courier of old said: "I have a message for you -- this year you shall surely die."
"Here, bishops, priests and faithful laity we gather to show reverence for the departed one. Who will be the next? Many of us will be in eternity before another year. Let us all take the lesson -- be ye ready. Let the lamp of your soul be filled with the oil of God's grace, and let it be trimmed and burning. May Jesus in His mercy grant us all grace."
Turning again to the casket, the bishop continued: "Now, my brother and friend, I answer the mute appeal you make to me from the coffin -- to speak to those you loved and for whom you were willing to lay down your life. We, your brothers, will not forget you. We will remember you at the altar. You, priests of the diocese, remember him now in his great need. You of the laity, show your appreciation of his work and devotion by your prayers that his soul may rest in peace and that the eternal light may shine upon him. Child-like confidence and devotion were deep traits of his character. Remember our accountability to God, greater in priest than in laity, greater in bishop than priest.
"Farewell, then, my dear brother and friend. I will not say forever, but rather 'auf wiedersehn' -- farewell until we meet again in that abode where God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes. Blessed Jesus, hear my prayer -- have mercy on him; may he rest in peace."
Source: The Chesterton Tribune, Chesterton, Porter County, Indiana; January 20, 1900; Volume 16, Number 41, Page 1, Columns 4-5.
Joseph Rademacher, R. C. bishop, was born in Westphalia, Mich., Dec. 3, 1840. He studied for the priesthood in St. Michael's seminary, Pittsburg, Pa., and was ordained, Aug. 2, 1863, by Bishop Luers of Fort Wayne, Ind. He was pastor of St. Francis's, Attica, Ind., 1863?69, where he also attended St. Joseph's mission at Marshfield; was pastor of St. Paul of the Cross, Columbia city, 1869?76; of St. Mary's, Fort Wayne, Ind., and chancellor of the diocese, 1877?80.
He was rector of St. Mary's, Lafayette, Ind., 1880?83; was nominated to the see of Nashville, Tenn., April 21, 1883, and was consecrated in St. Mary's cathedral, Nashville, Tenn., June 24, 1883, by Archbishop Feehan of Chicago, Ill., assisted by Bishop Chatard and Bishop Borgess. He labored successfully in that diocese until transferred to the diocese of Fort Wayne, by pontifical letter dated, July 14, 1893, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Bishop Joseph Dwenger . Jan. 29, 1893. He resigned November, 1899, and died at Fort Wayne, Ind., Jan. 12, 1900.
From: Twentieth Century Biographical Dictionary of Notable Americans, Johnson, Rossiter, editor
----------------------------
BISHOP RADEMACHER DEAD.
Noted Divine Passes Away After a Long and Painful Illness.
Glowing Tribute Paid to His Memory by Bishop Horstmann.
The Right Rev. Jos. E. Rademacher, third bishop of the diocese of Fort Wayne, died at 11:25 Friday, Jan. 12. The disabilities of the bishop have been serious for a year past, although his last illness did not set in until a few weeks ago. He was born Dec. 3, 1840, in Westphalia, Clinton county, Mich. At the age of 15 he went to St. Vincent's college in Latrobe, Pa., and a few years later graduated from St. Michael's seminary in Pittsburg. He then came to Fort Wayne, and on Aug. 2, 1863, was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Luers, the first bishop of Fort Wayne. His first charge was at Attica, Ind. He was next sent to Columbia City, and was later appointed pastor of St. Mary's church in Chicago. It was while filling this charge that he was appointed diocesan chancellor.
"In 1880 he was called to St. Mary's church, Lafayette, and June 24, 1883, was consecrated bishop of Nashville, to succeed Right Rev. Bishop Feehan. In 1889 he was one of the two American prelates who made the pilgrimage to Palestine, and was the only one to accompany the pilgrims on the entire journey. On July 13, 1893, Pope Leo XIII appointed him bishop of Fort Wayne to succeed Bishop Dwenger, and he was installed Oct. 4 of the same year. His work has been most satisfactory, and it is believed that his decline was caused by too assiduous attention to the business affairs of the diocese."
The funeral was held at Fort Wayne on Tuesday, Jan. 16, and the remains laid beneath the altar of the Fort Wayne cathedral, beside those of his predecessors. The funeral services were very impressive and the deep solemnity of every surrounding and the sublime grandeur of the funeral service of the Catholic church combined to make the occasion one that will long be remembered by those who witnessed it. The venerable Archbishop Elder, of the archdiocese of Cincinnati, was the celebrant for the pontifical requiem high mass, one of the most impressive in the liturgy of the Catholic church. It is only celebrated by a bishop or an archbishop. Assiting the archbishop were Very Rev. J. H. Guendling, V. G., as assistant priest, Rev. John Bleckmann as deacon of the mass, Rev. J. H. Bathe as sub-deacon of the mass, Rev. J. Guendling and Rev. J. F. Delaney as assistant deacons, Rev. W. J. Quinlan, Rev. C. B. Guendling and Rev. John Durham as masters of ceremonies, Rev. P. J. O'Reiley and Rev. F. X. LeBonte as acolytes, Rev. John Noll as bookbearer, Rev. P. J. Crawley as candlebearer, Rev. F. Fontaine as mitrebearer, and Rev. F. C. Kellar as gremiale.
Bishop Horstman's Tribute
Rt. Rev. Ignatius Horstmann, D. D., bishop of Cleveland, delivered the funeral discourse. It was a brief, but touching, tribute to the greatness and exemplary qualities of Bishop Rademacher. The open casket just below the pulpit on which Bishop Horstmann spoke seemed to appeal deeply to the bishop as he spoke, and his emotion was plainly evident.
Bishop Hortsmann chose his text from the first chapter of St. Luke's gospel; the words as follows: "My soul doeth magnify the Lord, and my spirit oath rejoiced in God, my Savior. He that is mighty hath done great things for me, and holy is His name."
In opening the bishop said: "We were in the midst of joyful, happy Christmas time. We were singing glory to God on high and on earth peace and goodwill to men. We have seen the magi coming from the east to Bethlehem. We have entered with them and found the Child with Mary, the mother. In the midst of these joyful celebrations the angel of death calls your leader, your shepherd, to his peace and to his reward. For him death was a happy release. For him it could have no terrors. At its call he was ready to answer, 'present.' He has already given an account of his stewardship. I received the sad news in Philadelphia. I hurried home and there was a letter telling me of his last hours. In my soul I spoke to God -- His mercy is from generation to generation. He has received Israel his servant.
"From the time he was stricken down I had one prayer -- Lord, give him his mind, that he might enter the kingdom as he would wish. God granted that prayer as he does the prayers of those that love him. Praise be to God." The bishop referred to the death of a sister who was recently found when life had expired, the crucifix pressed to her heart with both hands, showing her last prayer to have been, "Jesus have mercy on me." That was a beautiful death of all who cling steadfastly to the faith of Jesus.
"Death is always terrible, because after it come the judgment. Death is always sad, for it means the separation of links which have bound us to the happiness of the years. We, his brethern [sic] of the bishopric, will miss him, we will miss his wise counsels, his gentle and affable companionship and his unfaltering devotion. You, priests of the diocese of Fort Wayne, will miss him, and you must always remember him as your father and best friend. A man of real piety, of zeal, of self-sacrifice and devotion to his duty and his work; a man who realized his duty and always endeavored to follow it.
"We are surrounded by mystery, and the greatest of mysteries is human life. So also is its companion -- death. When a little more than a year ago the news came to us that your bishop was stricken, it came like a flash from a clear sky. At the meeting of bishops in 1893 had I been asked to say who be the first to be called by death I should have unhesitatingly said, 'Myself.' Had I been asked who would be the last, I should have answered, 'Bishop Rademacher.' He was then the type of physical health. But what a change; how sorrowful to him has been this last year. Take ye admonition and see ye the Lord while He may be found.
"Whatsoever God does He does for those who love Him. Why, then, shall we weep? Mourn not as those who have no hope. The Lord is the Christian's rock of hope and triumph. Stand steadfast and immovable, abounding in the work of God."
Gazing down on the lifeless form before him, Bishop Horstmann said:
"Is it not fitting that I, in the presence of that venerated body, should speak of his life and works. That should be done by one who knew him better, and I know that could he speak he would forbid it and ask rather for a prayer. There is one great lesson of death; it is not new; it is the same old story, as old as history. When he beckons with his long bony finger we must go with him. Today for me; tomorrow for thee. The one great lesson of death is to teach us all to be ready. The courier of old said: "I have a message for you -- this year you shall surely die."
"Here, bishops, priests and faithful laity we gather to show reverence for the departed one. Who will be the next? Many of us will be in eternity before another year. Let us all take the lesson -- be ye ready. Let the lamp of your soul be filled with the oil of God's grace, and let it be trimmed and burning. May Jesus in His mercy grant us all grace."
Turning again to the casket, the bishop continued: "Now, my brother and friend, I answer the mute appeal you make to me from the coffin -- to speak to those you loved and for whom you were willing to lay down your life. We, your brothers, will not forget you. We will remember you at the altar. You, priests of the diocese, remember him now in his great need. You of the laity, show your appreciation of his work and devotion by your prayers that his soul may rest in peace and that the eternal light may shine upon him. Child-like confidence and devotion were deep traits of his character. Remember our accountability to God, greater in priest than in laity, greater in bishop than priest.
"Farewell, then, my dear brother and friend. I will not say forever, but rather 'auf wiedersehn' -- farewell until we meet again in that abode where God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes. Blessed Jesus, hear my prayer -- have mercy on him; may he rest in peace."
Source: The Chesterton Tribune, Chesterton, Porter County, Indiana; January 20, 1900; Volume 16, Number 41, Page 1, Columns 4-5.
3rd Bishop of Fort Wayne Ordained Aug. 2, 1863 consecrated June 24, 1883
Joseph Rademacher, R. C. bishop, was born in Westphalia, Mich., Dec. 3, 1840. He studied for the priesthood in St. Michael's seminary, Pittsburg, Pa., and was ordained, Aug. 2, 1863, by Bishop Luers of Fort Wayne, Ind. He was pastor of St. Francis's, Attica, Ind., 1863?69, where he also attended St. Joseph's mission at Marshfield; was pastor of St. Paul of the Cross, Columbia city, 1869?76; of St. Mary's, Fort Wayne, Ind., and chancellor of the diocese, 1877?80.
He was rector of St. Mary's, Lafayette, Ind., 1880?83; was nominated to the see of Nashville, Tenn., April 21, 1883, and was consecrated in St. Mary's cathedral, Nashville, Tenn., June 24, 1883, by Archbishop Feehan of Chicago, Ill., assisted by Bishop Chatard and Bishop Borgess. He labored successfully in that diocese until transferred to the diocese of Fort Wayne, by pontifical letter dated, July 14, 1893, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Bishop Joseph Dwenger . Jan. 29, 1893. He resigned November, 1899, and died at Fort Wayne, Ind., Jan. 12, 1900.
From: Twentieth Century Biographical Dictionary of Notable Americans, Johnson, Rossiter, editor
----------------------------
BISHOP RADEMACHER DEAD.
Noted Divine Passes Away After a Long and Painful Illness.
Glowing Tribute Paid to His Memory by Bishop Horstmann.
The Right Rev. Jos. E. Rademacher, third bishop of the diocese of Fort Wayne, died at 11:25 Friday, Jan. 12. The disabilities of the bishop have been serious for a year past, although his last illness did not set in until a few weeks ago. He was born Dec. 3, 1840, in Westphalia, Clinton county, Mich. At the age of 15 he went to St. Vincent's college in Latrobe, Pa., and a few years later graduated from St. Michael's seminary in Pittsburg. He then came to Fort Wayne, and on Aug. 2, 1863, was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Luers, the first bishop of Fort Wayne. His first charge was at Attica, Ind. He was next sent to Columbia City, and was later appointed pastor of St. Mary's church in Chicago. It was while filling this charge that he was appointed diocesan chancellor.
"In 1880 he was called to St. Mary's church, Lafayette, and June 24, 1883, was consecrated bishop of Nashville, to succeed Right Rev. Bishop Feehan. In 1889 he was one of the two American prelates who made the pilgrimage to Palestine, and was the only one to accompany the pilgrims on the entire journey. On July 13, 1893, Pope Leo XIII appointed him bishop of Fort Wayne to succeed Bishop Dwenger, and he was installed Oct. 4 of the same year. His work has been most satisfactory, and it is believed that his decline was caused by too assiduous attention to the business affairs of the diocese."
The funeral was held at Fort Wayne on Tuesday, Jan. 16, and the remains laid beneath the altar of the Fort Wayne cathedral, beside those of his predecessors. The funeral services were very impressive and the deep solemnity of every surrounding and the sublime grandeur of the funeral service of the Catholic church combined to make the occasion one that will long be remembered by those who witnessed it. The venerable Archbishop Elder, of the archdiocese of Cincinnati, was the celebrant for the pontifical requiem high mass, one of the most impressive in the liturgy of the Catholic church. It is only celebrated by a bishop or an archbishop. Assiting the archbishop were Very Rev. J. H. Guendling, V. G., as assistant priest, Rev. John Bleckmann as deacon of the mass, Rev. J. H. Bathe as sub-deacon of the mass, Rev. J. Guendling and Rev. J. F. Delaney as assistant deacons, Rev. W. J. Quinlan, Rev. C. B. Guendling and Rev. John Durham as masters of ceremonies, Rev. P. J. O'Reiley and Rev. F. X. LeBonte as acolytes, Rev. John Noll as bookbearer, Rev. P. J. Crawley as candlebearer, Rev. F. Fontaine as mitrebearer, and Rev. F. C. Kellar as gremiale.
Bishop Horstman's Tribute
Rt. Rev. Ignatius Horstmann, D. D., bishop of Cleveland, delivered the funeral discourse. It was a brief, but touching, tribute to the greatness and exemplary qualities of Bishop Rademacher. The open casket just below the pulpit on which Bishop Horstmann spoke seemed to appeal deeply to the bishop as he spoke, and his emotion was plainly evident.
Bishop Hortsmann chose his text from the first chapter of St. Luke's gospel; the words as follows: "My soul doeth magnify the Lord, and my spirit oath rejoiced in God, my Savior. He that is mighty hath done great things for me, and holy is His name."
In opening the bishop said: "We were in the midst of joyful, happy Christmas time. We were singing glory to God on high and on earth peace and goodwill to men. We have seen the magi coming from the east to Bethlehem. We have entered with them and found the Child with Mary, the mother. In the midst of these joyful celebrations the angel of death calls your leader, your shepherd, to his peace and to his reward. For him death was a happy release. For him it could have no terrors. At its call he was ready to answer, 'present.' He has already given an account of his stewardship. I received the sad news in Philadelphia. I hurried home and there was a letter telling me of his last hours. In my soul I spoke to God -- His mercy is from generation to generation. He has received Israel his servant.
"From the time he was stricken down I had one prayer -- Lord, give him his mind, that he might enter the kingdom as he would wish. God granted that prayer as he does the prayers of those that love him. Praise be to God." The bishop referred to the death of a sister who was recently found when life had expired, the crucifix pressed to her heart with both hands, showing her last prayer to have been, "Jesus have mercy on me." That was a beautiful death of all who cling steadfastly to the faith of Jesus.
"Death is always terrible, because after it come the judgment. Death is always sad, for it means the separation of links which have bound us to the happiness of the years. We, his brethern [sic] of the bishopric, will miss him, we will miss his wise counsels, his gentle and affable companionship and his unfaltering devotion. You, priests of the diocese of Fort Wayne, will miss him, and you must always remember him as your father and best friend. A man of real piety, of zeal, of self-sacrifice and devotion to his duty and his work; a man who realized his duty and always endeavored to follow it.
"We are surrounded by mystery, and the greatest of mysteries is human life. So also is its companion -- death. When a little more than a year ago the news came to us that your bishop was stricken, it came like a flash from a clear sky. At the meeting of bishops in 1893 had I been asked to say who be the first to be called by death I should have unhesitatingly said, 'Myself.' Had I been asked who would be the last, I should have answered, 'Bishop Rademacher.' He was then the type of physical health. But what a change; how sorrowful to him has been this last year. Take ye admonition and see ye the Lord while He may be found.
"Whatsoever God does He does for those who love Him. Why, then, shall we weep? Mourn not as those who have no hope. The Lord is the Christian's rock of hope and triumph. Stand steadfast and immovable, abounding in the work of God."
Gazing down on the lifeless form before him, Bishop Horstmann said:
"Is it not fitting that I, in the presence of that venerated body, should speak of his life and works. That should be done by one who knew him better, and I know that could he speak he would forbid it and ask rather for a prayer. There is one great lesson of death; it is not new; it is the same old story, as old as history. When he beckons with his long bony finger we must go with him. Today for me; tomorrow for thee. The one great lesson of death is to teach us all to be ready. The courier of old said: "I have a message for you -- this year you shall surely die."
"Here, bishops, priests and faithful laity we gather to show reverence for the departed one. Who will be the next? Many of us will be in eternity before another year. Let us all take the lesson -- be ye ready. Let the lamp of your soul be filled with the oil of God's grace, and let it be trimmed and burning. May Jesus in His mercy grant us all grace."
Turning again to the casket, the bishop continued: "Now, my brother and friend, I answer the mute appeal you make to me from the coffin -- to speak to those you loved and for whom you were willing to lay down your life. We, your brothers, will not forget you. We will remember you at the altar. You, priests of the diocese, remember him now in his great need. You of the laity, show your appreciation of his work and devotion by your prayers that his soul may rest in peace and that the eternal light may shine upon him. Child-like confidence and devotion were deep traits of his character. Remember our accountability to God, greater in priest than in laity, greater in bishop than priest.
"Farewell, then, my dear brother and friend. I will not say forever, but rather 'auf wiedersehn' -- farewell until we meet again in that abode where God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes. Blessed Jesus, hear my prayer -- have mercy on him; may he rest in peace."
Source: The Chesterton Tribune, Chesterton, Porter County, Indiana; January 20, 1900; Volume 16, Number 41, Page 1, Columns 4-5.
Joseph Rademacher, R. C. bishop, was born in Westphalia, Mich., Dec. 3, 1840. He studied for the priesthood in St. Michael's seminary, Pittsburg, Pa., and was ordained, Aug. 2, 1863, by Bishop Luers of Fort Wayne, Ind. He was pastor of St. Francis's, Attica, Ind., 1863?69, where he also attended St. Joseph's mission at Marshfield; was pastor of St. Paul of the Cross, Columbia city, 1869?76; of St. Mary's, Fort Wayne, Ind., and chancellor of the diocese, 1877?80.
He was rector of St. Mary's, Lafayette, Ind., 1880?83; was nominated to the see of Nashville, Tenn., April 21, 1883, and was consecrated in St. Mary's cathedral, Nashville, Tenn., June 24, 1883, by Archbishop Feehan of Chicago, Ill., assisted by Bishop Chatard and Bishop Borgess. He labored successfully in that diocese until transferred to the diocese of Fort Wayne, by pontifical letter dated, July 14, 1893, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Bishop Joseph Dwenger . Jan. 29, 1893. He resigned November, 1899, and died at Fort Wayne, Ind., Jan. 12, 1900.
From: Twentieth Century Biographical Dictionary of Notable Americans, Johnson, Rossiter, editor
----------------------------
BISHOP RADEMACHER DEAD.
Noted Divine Passes Away After a Long and Painful Illness.
Glowing Tribute Paid to His Memory by Bishop Horstmann.
The Right Rev. Jos. E. Rademacher, third bishop of the diocese of Fort Wayne, died at 11:25 Friday, Jan. 12. The disabilities of the bishop have been serious for a year past, although his last illness did not set in until a few weeks ago. He was born Dec. 3, 1840, in Westphalia, Clinton county, Mich. At the age of 15 he went to St. Vincent's college in Latrobe, Pa., and a few years later graduated from St. Michael's seminary in Pittsburg. He then came to Fort Wayne, and on Aug. 2, 1863, was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Luers, the first bishop of Fort Wayne. His first charge was at Attica, Ind. He was next sent to Columbia City, and was later appointed pastor of St. Mary's church in Chicago. It was while filling this charge that he was appointed diocesan chancellor.
"In 1880 he was called to St. Mary's church, Lafayette, and June 24, 1883, was consecrated bishop of Nashville, to succeed Right Rev. Bishop Feehan. In 1889 he was one of the two American prelates who made the pilgrimage to Palestine, and was the only one to accompany the pilgrims on the entire journey. On July 13, 1893, Pope Leo XIII appointed him bishop of Fort Wayne to succeed Bishop Dwenger, and he was installed Oct. 4 of the same year. His work has been most satisfactory, and it is believed that his decline was caused by too assiduous attention to the business affairs of the diocese."
The funeral was held at Fort Wayne on Tuesday, Jan. 16, and the remains laid beneath the altar of the Fort Wayne cathedral, beside those of his predecessors. The funeral services were very impressive and the deep solemnity of every surrounding and the sublime grandeur of the funeral service of the Catholic church combined to make the occasion one that will long be remembered by those who witnessed it. The venerable Archbishop Elder, of the archdiocese of Cincinnati, was the celebrant for the pontifical requiem high mass, one of the most impressive in the liturgy of the Catholic church. It is only celebrated by a bishop or an archbishop. Assiting the archbishop were Very Rev. J. H. Guendling, V. G., as assistant priest, Rev. John Bleckmann as deacon of the mass, Rev. J. H. Bathe as sub-deacon of the mass, Rev. J. Guendling and Rev. J. F. Delaney as assistant deacons, Rev. W. J. Quinlan, Rev. C. B. Guendling and Rev. John Durham as masters of ceremonies, Rev. P. J. O'Reiley and Rev. F. X. LeBonte as acolytes, Rev. John Noll as bookbearer, Rev. P. J. Crawley as candlebearer, Rev. F. Fontaine as mitrebearer, and Rev. F. C. Kellar as gremiale.
Bishop Horstman's Tribute
Rt. Rev. Ignatius Horstmann, D. D., bishop of Cleveland, delivered the funeral discourse. It was a brief, but touching, tribute to the greatness and exemplary qualities of Bishop Rademacher. The open casket just below the pulpit on which Bishop Horstmann spoke seemed to appeal deeply to the bishop as he spoke, and his emotion was plainly evident.
Bishop Hortsmann chose his text from the first chapter of St. Luke's gospel; the words as follows: "My soul doeth magnify the Lord, and my spirit oath rejoiced in God, my Savior. He that is mighty hath done great things for me, and holy is His name."
In opening the bishop said: "We were in the midst of joyful, happy Christmas time. We were singing glory to God on high and on earth peace and goodwill to men. We have seen the magi coming from the east to Bethlehem. We have entered with them and found the Child with Mary, the mother. In the midst of these joyful celebrations the angel of death calls your leader, your shepherd, to his peace and to his reward. For him death was a happy release. For him it could have no terrors. At its call he was ready to answer, 'present.' He has already given an account of his stewardship. I received the sad news in Philadelphia. I hurried home and there was a letter telling me of his last hours. In my soul I spoke to God -- His mercy is from generation to generation. He has received Israel his servant.
"From the time he was stricken down I had one prayer -- Lord, give him his mind, that he might enter the kingdom as he would wish. God granted that prayer as he does the prayers of those that love him. Praise be to God." The bishop referred to the death of a sister who was recently found when life had expired, the crucifix pressed to her heart with both hands, showing her last prayer to have been, "Jesus have mercy on me." That was a beautiful death of all who cling steadfastly to the faith of Jesus.
"Death is always terrible, because after it come the judgment. Death is always sad, for it means the separation of links which have bound us to the happiness of the years. We, his brethern [sic] of the bishopric, will miss him, we will miss his wise counsels, his gentle and affable companionship and his unfaltering devotion. You, priests of the diocese of Fort Wayne, will miss him, and you must always remember him as your father and best friend. A man of real piety, of zeal, of self-sacrifice and devotion to his duty and his work; a man who realized his duty and always endeavored to follow it.
"We are surrounded by mystery, and the greatest of mysteries is human life. So also is its companion -- death. When a little more than a year ago the news came to us that your bishop was stricken, it came like a flash from a clear sky. At the meeting of bishops in 1893 had I been asked to say who be the first to be called by death I should have unhesitatingly said, 'Myself.' Had I been asked who would be the last, I should have answered, 'Bishop Rademacher.' He was then the type of physical health. But what a change; how sorrowful to him has been this last year. Take ye admonition and see ye the Lord while He may be found.
"Whatsoever God does He does for those who love Him. Why, then, shall we weep? Mourn not as those who have no hope. The Lord is the Christian's rock of hope and triumph. Stand steadfast and immovable, abounding in the work of God."
Gazing down on the lifeless form before him, Bishop Horstmann said:
"Is it not fitting that I, in the presence of that venerated body, should speak of his life and works. That should be done by one who knew him better, and I know that could he speak he would forbid it and ask rather for a prayer. There is one great lesson of death; it is not new; it is the same old story, as old as history. When he beckons with his long bony finger we must go with him. Today for me; tomorrow for thee. The one great lesson of death is to teach us all to be ready. The courier of old said: "I have a message for you -- this year you shall surely die."
"Here, bishops, priests and faithful laity we gather to show reverence for the departed one. Who will be the next? Many of us will be in eternity before another year. Let us all take the lesson -- be ye ready. Let the lamp of your soul be filled with the oil of God's grace, and let it be trimmed and burning. May Jesus in His mercy grant us all grace."
Turning again to the casket, the bishop continued: "Now, my brother and friend, I answer the mute appeal you make to me from the coffin -- to speak to those you loved and for whom you were willing to lay down your life. We, your brothers, will not forget you. We will remember you at the altar. You, priests of the diocese, remember him now in his great need. You of the laity, show your appreciation of his work and devotion by your prayers that his soul may rest in peace and that the eternal light may shine upon him. Child-like confidence and devotion were deep traits of his character. Remember our accountability to God, greater in priest than in laity, greater in bishop than priest.
"Farewell, then, my dear brother and friend. I will not say forever, but rather 'auf wiedersehn' -- farewell until we meet again in that abode where God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes. Blessed Jesus, hear my prayer -- have mercy on him; may he rest in peace."
Source: The Chesterton Tribune, Chesterton, Porter County, Indiana; January 20, 1900; Volume 16, Number 41, Page 1, Columns 4-5.
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