Hundreds turned out at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Fort Wayne to celebrate and remember the life of the late Bishop John D’Arcy.

The funeral mass lasted for almost two hours, Bishop Kevin Rhoades, who replaced Bishop D’Arcy as Bishop of the Fort Wayne-South Bend Catholic Diocese in 2009, spoke near the conclusion of the mass for Bishop D’Arcy:

“I wish to extend deep gratitude to the communities of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend for the tremendous outpouring of love, support, and prayers during these days.”

“I wish to conclude with words that Bishop D’Arcy would often say at the end of a funeral homily:  “Safe home, John, safe home.” 

Among those in attendance were numerous Bishops from around the country, education representatives, church community leaders, and several public officials, including, U.S. Senator Donnelly, Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann and Mayor of Ft. Wayne, Tom Henry.

Bishop D’Arcy will be laid to rest in the crypt underneath the altar of the Cathedral.