Bishop Andrew Byrne: Quixotic in Arkansas

July 18, 2011 by Pat McNamara

Continued from Page 1

Catholic bishops preface their signature with a cross, but the Arkansas Gazette commented: "Who could trust a man who signs his name with a dagger!" Still, Byrne persevered. Rather than engage in controversy, historian James Woods writes, he endured anti-Catholicism "with a dignity that earned the respect of sworn enemies of the Church." At the same time, however, he also avoided addressing a serious moral issue. Although Byrne never owned slaves, he was no abolitionist.

Horseback was the main means of travel in Arkansas. There were few places with enough Catholics to start a church. In effect, the bishop and his priests became circuit riders. In one town, he met some Catholics who hadn't seen a priest in forty years. Long years of travel and rough frontier life eventually caught up with him, and he died in the summer of 1862, as Arkansas was caught in the throes of Civil War.

Bishop Byrne left nine priests, eleven churches and a community of Sisters running three schools. A Catholic framework, however small compared to elsewhere, existed where none previously had. At times he discouraged, but he never lost faith. Then and now, in their commitment to public service and the common good, Arkansas Catholics have exercised an influence on the larger culture far exceeding their actual number.

Page: 2 of 2

7/18/2011 4:00:00 AM

Catholic

In Ages Past

History

Roman Catholicism

more at patheos

Reply to Protestants: Invalid Catholic Authority?

Dave Armstrong

Carl Henry’s Response to Piper’s View of Inerrancy

Roger E. Olson

Rogue AI Isn't the Threat You Think It Is

James McGrath

When Faith Becomes Routine: A Reflection on the Prophet Amos

William Hemsworth

About Pat McNamara

Dr. Pat McNamara is a published historian. He blogs about American Catholic History at McNamara's Blog.

Patheos Logo Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In Subscription Support

Subscription Support Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In

Follow Patheos