Fr Beau Brandie died peacefully last night after a fairly short illness. He was wonderfully cared for from St John’s, West Worthing, where he ministered in retirement. Even in this lockdown he was sustained sacramentally by Fr Roger Caswell, a ministry that was deeply appreciated.
Fr Beau was a stalwart defender of the Catholic Faith in the Church of England, and in this diocese. His commitment to the Faith was never simply a matter of ecclesiastical politics – though it was certainly that as well! But far more importantly, our religion, the practice of Christian faith in its full power and glory, was for Fr Beau the practical and evangelistic expression of the love of God in mercy and redemption.
As those of you who knew him well might expect, he left detailed notes about his funeral arrangements. Fr Roger tells me that they are as follows:
After a small service at the crematorium (he has specified who should attend) his ashes will come back to St John’s until they can be buried at Walsingham. Solemn Requiem at St John’s, which I believe you have agreed to celebrate, when restrictions permit.
Details of the Solemn Requiem will be advertised as soon as arrangements can be made.
Meanwhile, I commend Fr Beau to your prayers: to give thanks for his life and ministry, to pray for the repose of his soul.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
+Martin