Community mourns peaceful passing of Fr Finnian OCSO in his 98th year

Father Finnian OCSO (Thomas) Owens, a cherished member of the Our Lady of Bethlehem Abbey community, passed away peacefully yesterday (December 1, 2025) in his 98th year. His death, following a short illness, brings deep sadness to the Portglenone community.

Father Finnian, a deeply religious and dedicated Cistercian monk, was a cherished member of the Abbey for over 77 years and a priest for 72 years.

Born in Belfast in 1928, Fr. Finnian moved to the monastery in Portglenone in 1948 and was ordained a priest in 1953. While he maintained a quiet and humble presence, rarely seeking the public eye beyond Easter services, he was a cornerstone of the monastic community.

For many years, he diligently managed the monastery kitchens and supplies, known for his quiet demeanour that often gave way to warm conversation and lively banter with those who worked closely with him.

Fr Finnian’s remains will arrive at Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone, on Wednesday, December 3 for reception at 6.30pm. Requiem Mass in the Abbey Church on Thursday, December 4 at 11.00am followed by burial immediately afterwards in the Abbey Cemetery. St Benedict and St Patrick, pray for him. Deeply regretted by his sorrowing sister Mona, the Superior and the Monastic Community.