Fr. Simeon Finnegan (1918-1972)

Father Simeon Finnegan passed away July 24, 1972.

Father Simeon was a marvel of composure, “laid back” under the most extreme of circumstances. For example, he was the Administrator of Camp St. Maur a number of years and could satisfy the most extreme demands of screaming nine to 12 year olds who did not know what he said but were totally satisfied with his answer.  His motto, “Nothing is too good for a camper at Camp St. Maur,” was definitely ambiguous.  Such a disposition no doubt served him well as a German prisoner of war in World War II. 

On one occasion Father Simeon, not a Fulton Sheen of a homilist, was explaining to the campers at an outdoor Mass the “ineffability” of the Medal of St. Benedict.  It seemed that they found an airplane flying overhead much more ineffable.  All eyes followed that plane. 

Father Simeon was a kind, gentle and humble man.  His death a shock.