A Medford prophecy fulfilled.
In a breezy article on ‘Men We Know,’ in ‘Medford, Past and Present,’ George S. Delano, less than seven years ago, made this prophecy, ‘He will be one of America's highest church officials, granting that his life is spared.’ Ere a year had passed a former Medford curate, the Rev. William O'Connell, who had begun his priesthood at St. Joseph's Church, was appointed coadjutor to Archbishop Williams of Boston, and another year succeeded him on the arch-episcopal throne.A man of rare gifts, strong personality, tireless effort, and beloved of all, his recent elevation to the Cardinalate in the Roman Church is noted with satisfaction by many Medford people beside those of his own faith.
It is said that he loved Medford, and was much interested in her welfare during his work here and would willingly have served his people longer and become the parish priest. It was, however, the old story of faithfulness in small things that brings advancement, and the good will of his former townsmen follows him to the high position in his church to which he has been elevated.
Cardinal O'Connell is not the only man who has begun here a career of usefulness. Scattered all along the years [p. 30] of the old town's history may be found the record of those who have here labored, and their endeavors should be an incentive to the youth of today.
Doubtless our Medford prophet rejoices in the fulfilment of his prophecy.
