Father Jack Loughran, OSFS, at his ordination, May 24, 1980 with his grandfather (Joseph Loughran)
My grandfather, Joseph Francis Loughran, was born in 1899 in Philadelphia. As told by his descendants, the stories of his life range from the rather tragic to the humorous. My grandfather’s father, an alcoholic, abandoned his wife, two young daughters and his youngest, Joseph. Out of necessity, Joseph quit school and began his work career around the age of 12 as one of the youngsters who would haul dirt, brick and cement to the laborers building the Philadelphia sewer system. There are several stories of his father stealing his lunch at work.
He eventually progressed in his field to owning a plumbing business with numerous employees. I remember him speaking about prohibition and all the bathtubs he had to unplug in which folks were producing moonshine. My grandfather grew up with his cousin, Tommy Loughran, a professional boxer and the former World Light Heavyweight Champion known as the Phantom of Philly. He told stories of the two cleaning up the athletic competition held at their parish, St. Monica’s, at every July 4th Festival. My grandfather won every foot race and, of course, Tommy won the evening boxing match.
Joseph Francis Loughran
Despite these reminiscences, the image I always have of my grandfather is of him sitting in his favorite chair. He would sit there every morning around 6 am and recite aloud his long list of devotional prayers followed by his rosary. All this before heading off to 8 am Mass. My parents left Philly before I was born, but we often visited and stayed with my grandfather. Over the years, my grandfather’s hearing progressively declined, and his morning prayers became louder and louder, making it impossible to sleep. While annoyed, I also remember being impressed that he was so devout. Like clockwork, two hours of prayer every morning, followed by Mass, was pretty impressive.
As an adult, I’ve grown to appreciate the daily ritual my grandfather modeled for me and have taken it up. I know I’m not as vigorous about it as he was but remembering him frequently as I settle into my morning prayer encourages me.
My youthful question, wondering why it was so important for my grandfather to devote so much time to prayer, has found an answer in the Introduction to the Devout Life by Saint Francis de Sales. Saint Francis writes:
“Prayer opens the understanding, the brightness of Divine Light, and the will to the worth of Heavenly Love - nothing can so effectually purify the mind from its many ignorances or the will from its perverse affections. It is a healing water that causes the roots of our good desires to send forth fresh shoots, which washes away the soul’s imperfections and allays the thirst of passion.”
I’m sure my grandfather, who died at age 97, has found that Divine Light and lives in the Heavenly Help he prayed for daily. I’m also sure he’s praying for me today.
Father Jack Loughran, OSFS
Provincial
Toledo-Detroit Province
