Reverend Daniel James Lynch, S.M.A.
was born on November 18, 1948 in Bridgeport, CT., the son of the late Daniel Robert and Ann Evanick Lynch. He became a member of the Society of African Missions in May 11, 1973 and was ordained to the priesthood in September 1, 1973, in the SMA Provincial Headquarters, in Tenafly. He served as a missionary in Liberia from 1973 to 1978. He was one of the first American Province members who served in the missions in Tanzania, in the years 1978 -1980. Returning to the USA, Dan was assigned to the SMA House in Dedham, MA, as a Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor at Holy Family Hospital, in Methuen, MA, until 1992. Afterwards, he became part of the Lay Associate Program formation team, in the SMA House in Takoma Park, MD, until his retirement in the year 2018.
Fr. Dan was a profound admirer of the Carmelite spirituality of St. John of the Cross, St. Teresa of Avila, and Therese of Lisieux. He did courses at the WTU in Washington DC. He was a prolific writer in spirituality and prayer. Fr. Dan was an avid reader, loved nature and had a deep love for silence and contemplation.
He took his retirement at his home in Bridgeport, CT. Because of illness he moved to the Provincialate in Tenafly, NJ, in June 2019. Entered into Eternal Life December 20, 2019.
Fr. Dan is survived by his sisters Ann Marie Lynch Ocetnik and her husband Andrew of Milford, CT, Sr. Kathleen Lynch, S.N.D. and his uncle Fr. Michael Evanick of Merrilville, IN as well as cousins and friends.
Fr. Dan was not only a gifted teacher but a brilliant mind.
He had great wit with a contemplative’s heart that inspired others to seek their greatest potential.
Thank you, dear teacher, for all the gifts you shared.
Thank you Mrs Helen Walker for your comment.
We all miss our brother Dan. His last months here in Tenafly, gave us the opportunity to enjoy his presence, and treasure his smile and wisdom.
May God bless you and protect your family.
Fr. Gustavo
Dan had a extremely intense desire to uncover the mystery of nature. He taught me the magic of Walden Pond. Stories of East Africa, and our country rides in Easton ct, when he came home. I well miss him dearly. My brother.
I knew Dan when he studied theology at the Washington Theological Union from 1970-1973. He was a joy to know.. Rest in peace, Dan. You show us the way.
God Bless You Dan a true friend.
Dan, ism here tonight to write so your memories well not be forgotten, miss you and dream in blind faith I may see you again when my time forest well come. 8/7/2020.
I remember Dan well from our seminary years in Washington. Pleasant memories.
May he rest in peace with the Lord.
(Msgr.) Richard J. Kelley
Pelham, New Hampshire
Hey Dan iam ,recalling once again the days in the spring,summer, fall and winter .days of our friendship spent , a lifetime joy. You may be gone one year, but I have not forgot our massive journey together. Until were once again united take care , Love yourbiddy and a spiritual brother. Tom.