Community Celebrates Life of Christian McCullagh at Emotional Funeral

A large crowd gathered at St Eunan’s Church in Raphoe on March 15, 2024, to pay tribute to Christian McCullagh, a 17-year-old who passed away following a brief illness earlier this week. Family, friends, and classmates from both St Eunan’s National School and Deele College filled the church, reflecting the deep impact Christian had on their lives.

During the service, Christian’s older sister, Rocha McCullagh, delivered a heartfelt poem in memory of her brother. The ceremony was led by Fr Eamonn Kelly, the parish priest, who opened with remarks highlighting Christian’s central role within his family and community.

Fr Kelly acknowledged the profound loss felt by all, stating, “While we wish it was different, we have to accept the reality of the sudden passing of this young man.” He emphasized that Christian will remain a part of their lives, saying, “He’s there in our hearts and will be there forever.”

In his homily, Fr Kelly recounted the numerous medical challenges Christian faced throughout his life. He described how Christian managed to bring joy and peace to those around him despite the hardships. “He suffered so much over the years, but everyone tells very similar stories of the fun that we had, the peace that came from him, the laughter at the everyday things of life,” he said.

Christian’s positive spirit was evident in the way he interacted with others. Fr Kelly noted, “We hear of Christian’s spirit lifting the spirits of others, of a room becoming a brighter place because Christian entered into it.” He shared anecdotes about Christian, including how a simple question could lighten the mood, like when he would ask his sister, “Are you blubbering again?” This ability to inject humor into difficult moments was a hallmark of Christian’s personality.

Fr Kelly continued by reflecting on the lessons Christian’s life offers to others. He remarked on Christian’s unique charm, wit, and liveliness, suggesting that his attitude serves as a guide for leading a fulfilling life. “Most of us are fed up, cranky, and moody when we have a head cold. But for Christian, with his many medical setbacks, life was what it was, and it was there to be lived,” he said.

The priest encouraged attendees to acknowledge the inspiration derived from Christian’s perseverance. “His attitude to life helps us have a better attitude ourselves. His attitude to life…was ‘I will overcome,’” Fr Kelly stated. He recognized the incredible strength Christian demonstrated daily, often defying expectations.

“‘You won’t be able to read and write,’ they told him. But we have his own copybooks now, where he expressed his thoughts and many of his ideas,” Fr Kelly recounted, illustrating Christian’s determination.

Even as the community mourned, Fr Kelly urged them to celebrate Christian’s legacy of love and resilience. “Even though our hearts are cracking with pain, we thank you, Christian, for everything you were and are,” he said.

The service concluded with prayers for Christian’s eternal peace and for comfort for his grieving family and friends. Fr Kelly asked for divine support for all those affected by the loss, emphasizing the collective sorrow within the community.

The funeral of Christian McCullagh not only memorialized a beloved young man but also served as a poignant reminder of the strength found in love, laughter, and the enduring spirit of community.