30 November 2025

Tribute to Father Edward Gaynor CM

Today, we see a beautiful hand-drawn page, dated 29 April 1889, featuring artwork in the form of imagery and text. It is part of a book dedicated to Father Edward Gaynor CM (1852-1936), and was made by those of the church of Saint Vincent’s, Sheffield, upon his departure.

The four corner of the pages harbour a roundel each, with each one containing an angel. Between the top roundel and bottom roundel, there is also an angel, making a total of six.

The three top angels, from left to right, show the words ‘St Vincent’s Catholic Church Sheffield’. In the left margin, we have Saint Louise de Marillac, with the text ‘Blessed are the Merciful’ and in the right margin is Saint Vincent de Paul, with the text ‘Deus Caritas Est’.

The main text reads:

Rev’d and Dear Father,

On behalf of the Congregation and Friends of St Vincent’s, we desire to express to you our sincere regret at your removal from amongst us, and to place upon record our warm appreciation of the energy and zeal with which, together with the other Rev’d Fathers of St Vincent’s, you have so successfully laboured in this Mission for the Glory of God and the Salvation of Souls.

As a memento of our deep feelings of respect and affection towards you, we offer for your acceptance this Address, feeling sure Dear Rev Father, there will always be a warm spot in your kindly heart for the Congregation & Friends of St Vincent’s.