Msgr. Joseph Corley, former pastor at Darby BVM, is still being remembered and honored a year and half after his death as the parish recently dedicated a building in his name, writes Gina Christian for catholicphilly.com.

Msgr. Corley served as pastor from 1998 until his death in June 2019.

About 200 gathered Oct. 25 for the blessing of a plaque renaming the parish hall after him.

“He was a man according to God’s heart,” said parochial administrator Father Dellagiovanna, who blessed the plaque. “And I think that all those who knew him can agree with me.”

He had the unique ability to lead while remaining “one of us,” said attendee Kolleen Bowers, a graduate of BVM Parish school.

Msgr. Corley, ordained in 1975, served on the faculty of Cardinal O’Hara High School and was  assistant director of the archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adults.

He was appointed rector of Villa St. Joseph and was named a Chaplain of His Holiness, with the title of monsignor, by Pope Francis.

He is credited with breaking down racial barriers at the Darby Borough parish, welcoming all parishioners, regardless of background.

Read more about Father Corley and BMV Church in Darby at catholicphilly.com.

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