John Patrick Kavanagh (30 April 1913 – 10 July 1985) was the fourth Catholic Bishop of Dunedin (1957–1985).
John Kavanagh | |
---|---|
4th Bishop of Dunedin | |
Personal details | |
Born | Hāwera, New Zealand | 30 April 1913
Died | Dunedin, New Zealand | 10 July 1985
Early life
editLegacy
editDunedin's only Catholic secondary school, Kavanagh College, was named after him until 2023.
In 2018 public controversy arose as to his handling of clergy and religious abuse allegations during his episcopal tenure.[2] In 2020, Cardinal John Dew instigated an investigation into Kavanagh's actions.[3] The investigation found that Kavanagh failed to investigate abuse claims relating to one priest. In 2022 it was announced that Kavanagh College would be renamed Trinity Catholic College from 1 January 2023 in consequence.[4]
Death
editHe died in Dunedin on 10 July 1985.[1]
References
edit- ^ a b Mulrennan, Frances. "Kavanagh, John Patrick". Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Ministry for Culture and Heritage. Retrieved 14 January 2020.
- ^ Morris, Chris (15 December 2018). "Sisters of Mercy a dark misnomer". Otago Daily Times. Retrieved 16 December 2018.
- ^ "New Zealand cardinal opens inquiry into late bishop's actions on abuse". Catholic News Service. 18 November 2020. Retrieved 9 May 2021.
- ^ Hudson, Daisy (18 March 2022). "Kavanagh College to be renamed". Otago Daily Times. Retrieved 1 February 2023.
- Bishop John Patrick Kavanagh, Catholic Hierarchy website (Retrieved 17 January 2011)