Ned Kelly
was a Faithful Catholic all of his days

Finally in January 2013 we
have laid the bones of Ned Kelly to rest, however the St Patrick's Church parish
priest Monsignor John White says he received
offensive emails and calls when it emerged he was to conduct Ned's funeral.
However, Ned Kelly was a faithful Catholic all of his days, most writings never condemned
Neds humanity and goodness. As a boy, Ned risked his life to save
another boy from drowning. In attended School
at Avenel and it was written of him, Ned was a bright pupil and a very nice mannered
and well-behaved boy at school.
He was baptised by an Augustinian priest, Charles OHea who again met up with Ned
when the young man was sent to Pentridge to serve part of his three-year sentence. There OHea found goodness in Neds
young character, Neds behaviour during his time at Pentridge was described as
good.
At Jerilderie the Reverend Gribble told Kelly that he would like his watch back that was
taken by Steve Hart, respectfully, Ned made Hart return the watch. Gribble asked Ned for
the return of a racing mare belonging to the daughter of the proprietor of a Jerilderie
hotel; the mare was immediately given back. These
are examples of Kellys respect for Gods servants.
Regarding the siege at Glenrowan Station, Reverend Gibney made the statement I went
to where Ned Kelly was lying, he was penitent and showed a very good disposition. I asked him to pray, Lord Jesus,
have mercy on me, he said it, and added, It is not today I began to say
that.
In Melbourne gaol the Rev. Coles
who met with Ned Kelly said that he was by no means a ruffian and that he had rather a
pleasant expression of countenance. Ned who
heard Coles, preaching on Prepare to meet your God, stated, I believe it
all. Although I have been bushranging, I have
always believed that when I die I have a God to meet.
Ned treated Coles with great respect and listened to all Coles had to say,
and knelt down by Coles as he prayed.
Of Ned, Monsignor John White rightfully said, "Today, we're righting a wrong,"
and that it was not his, nor any Catholic's place, to judge Ned Kelly, as the ultimate
judgment was God's alone.
Al
Heffron.
9 Hiscock Court.
Benalla Vic 3672.
03 5762 6889.
Friday 18 January 2013
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