As students, family and people close to Mary Kate Phelan continued to trickle in, the Rev. Daniel Hendrickson, S.J., began his speech at the packed memorial service for Phelan on Monday. Campus Ministry ushered in people arriving just before the service, seating them wherever there was an open seat allowing strangers to synthesize a shared experience: the loss of Phelan.
Those close to Phelan remembered her fondly, writing notes of encouragement to the family at the entrance of the service. “We’re gathered to remember a beautiful daughter and a spectacular person all the way around,” Hendrickson began.
The memorial service, held at St. John’s Catholic Church at 7 p.m. on Monday, was attended by enough people to pack the pews to the brim, showing the immense support and camaraderie of Creighton in the face of adversity.
“As a kindergartener, Mary Kate was described as strong-willed by her teacher.” Hendrickson added, humanizing the loss for the university, and rooting her in the rich history of her life.
The service’s homily, given by the Rev. Jeffrey Sullivan, S.J., was summarized in just two words, “like that.” Sullivan described how in times where it seems people were taken, “just like that,” it’s important to remain in the love of both Phelan and God.
Sullivan spent time with both the family and friends of Phelan the weekend of her passing, despite not knowing her personally. He offered his support, advice and gave Phelan her last rites.
Sullivan said that in times like this we have, “permission to be troubled, sad and angry.”
Sullivan imbued some humour, “I visited Mary Kate’s home, a place where maybe a lot of prayer doesn’t happen,” said Sullivan. The attendees shared a bout of laughter, reminding those closest to Phelan that her life was one led with purpose, fun, and goodwill.
Following the homily, all attendants interlaced hands for the Lord’s Prayer, extending across the aisles, showing solidarity with those most impacted by the death of the student.
Phelan, a senior in the department of Computer Science, Design, and Journalism, died after a tragic car accident Friday morning.
In an email statement by the Rev. Daniel S. Hendrickson, S.J., Phelan was an avid contributor to the Creighton community, having actively volunteered in Creighton’s chapter of the Pinky Swear Foundation.
“The closeness of our campus remains such a blessing at Creighton, but it also means difficult news like this is felt by many,” said Hendrickson in his email statement.
Student Counseling Services, Campus Ministry, and the Employee Assistance Program are all available to help support the Creighton community amid this tragedy.
Phelan will be remembered on and off campus as a woman for and with others and as an important part of the Creighton community.