Bishop Barber's letter to the faithful on the passing of Bishop Emeritus John S. Cummins

 December 3, 2024

St. Francis Xavier, Priest

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

It is with great sadness but hope in our Risen Lord that I share with you that Bishop Emeritus John S. Cummins, the second Bishop of the Diocese of Oakland, entered into eternity peacefully this morning, December 3, 2024.  Bishop Cummins was 96 years old and leaves a legacy of service to the people of God through his priesthood and episcopacy as the longest serving bishop of Oakland.

Bishop Cummins was ordained to the priesthood on January 24, 1953, at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption in San Francisco. On May 16, 1974, he was ordained a Bishop and installed as Auxiliary Bishop to the Diocese of Sacramento. Upon the death of Bishop Floyd L. Begin, founding Bishop of the Oakland Diocese, Bishop Cummins was appointed the second Bishop of Oakland and installed on June 30, 1977. He led the diocese for 26 years, retiring at the mandatory age of 75, on Oct. 1, 2003.

Our diocese has lost a father, grandfather, shepherd and true priest of Jesus Christ. May Christ the Good Shepherd welcome Bishop John into the eternal reward prepared for him who served the flock of Oakland so well. 

Please remember Bishop Cummins, his family and our Diocesan family in your prayers. 

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him; may he rest in peace.

May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. 

With the assurance of my continued prayers, I am

Yours sincerely in Christ,

The Most Reverend Michael C. Barber, S.J.

Bishop of Oakland