1. Mary Jo Tully, first laywoman chancellor of a US diocese, dies at 86
2. Mary Jo Tully, pioneering laywoman chancellor of a US diocese, passes away at 86.
Mary Jo Tully, First Laywoman Chancellor of a U.S. Diocese and Contributor to the Catechism, Passes Away at 86
In a sad turn of events, Mary Jo Tully, the first laywoman chancellor of a U.S. diocese, has passed away at the age of 86. Tully, who played an important but unattributed role in the creation of the official Catechism of the Catholic Church, served as the chancellor for the Archdiocese of Portland, Oregon for an impressive 27 years before her retirement in 2016.
Tully’s colleagues and friends remember her for her candor, compassion, and dedication to the church. She was known for her talents as a catechist, her wit, and her distinctive gravelly voice. Despite her many accomplishments, Tully remained humble and did not seek recognition for her contributions.
A Trailblazer in the Catholic Church
It is worth noting that laypeople were not permitted to hold the position of chancellor until 1983 when Pope John Paul II revised the Code of Canon Law. The chancellor is considered one of the top positions of authority in a diocese, second only to the bishop. While their responsibilities may vary, their principal function is to coordinate and maintain diocesan records.
Tully’s colleagues and friends speak highly of her versatility and ability to adapt to various roles within the church. She served as a liaison with health care providers, worked in the ecumenical office, and even held the position of vicar for religious. Her dedication to her work and her deep love for the church were evident throughout her career.
A Lifelong Commitment to the Church
Tully’s impact extended beyond her role as chancellor. She wrote columns on Scripture for the Catholic Sentinel, the Portland archdiocesan newspaper, and played a significant role in fostering Catholic-Jewish relationships in the city. She was also known for her ability to navigate difficult interpersonal conflicts, providing guidance to both priests and laity.
Tully’s compassion for others and her commitment to social justice were evident from an early age. As the daughter of Irish Catholic parents, she grew up in Chicago and actively participated in civil rights marches in the 1960s. Her dedication to helping others, especially children and immigrants, left a lasting impact on the communities she served.
A Champion of the Catholic Faith
Tully’s close friend and colleague, Fr. Joseph Mulcrone, shared a touching story that epitomized Tully’s unwavering faith. During a program for parents preparing for their children’s first Communion, Tully encountered a man who was initially skeptical. However, after listening to Tully speak, he approached her and expressed his desire to believe as she did. This encounter is a testament to Tully’s ability to inspire others and her profound impact as a catechist.
Tully’s journey to becoming the chancellor of the Archdiocese of Portland began when she served as the director of religious education in the Chicago Archdiocese. Her talents and dedication caught the attention of then-Archbishop William Levada, who offered her a position as assistant chancellor. Recognizing her exceptional abilities, Levada appointed her as the first laywoman chancellor the following year.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Tully’s influence extended beyond her own tenure as chancellor. Over the years, the number of laywomen chancellors in U.S. dioceses has steadily increased. Tully’s impact on the catechism, the reference work containing the church’s essential teachings, cannot be overstated. While Archbishop Levada is often attributed with preparing the glossary, Tully played a significant role in humanizing the catechism and making it applicable in pastoral ministry.
Throughout her years of service, Tully navigated diverse personalities and priorities with grace and understanding. She firmly believed that the church remains constant, even as individuals come and go. Her commitment to her work was recognized by Pope Benedict XVI, who awarded her the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal in 2008.
A Fond Farewell
Mary Jo Tully’s retirement was a bittersweet moment for the Catholic community in Oregon. As she bid farewell to her lifelong dedication to the church, Brian Doyle, an award-winning author and editor, paid tribute to her tireless efforts. He acknowledged the thousands of meetings, complaints, and insults she handled, as well as the countless programs and projects she oversaw. Tully’s impact on the faith in Oregon will always be remembered and cherished.
In her retirement, Tully spent time with her family in Austin, Texas. She will be laid to rest in Chicago, next to her mother.
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– Mary Jo Tully, first laywoman chancellor of a US diocese, passes away at 86
– US diocese mourns the loss of Mary Jo Tully, first female chancellor.
