‘Act of total evil’ - Funeral Mass held for victims of arson attack in Waterford city

Hundreds of people have attended the Funeral Mass for the victims of last week’s arson attack in Waterford city.

Requiem Mass for the late Philip and Kim English, as well as their sons Callum and Jayden, was held in the Sacred Heart Church this afternoon.

It was con-celebrated by parish priest Fr Gerry Chestnutt and the Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, Alphonsus Cullinan.

In his homily, Fr Chestnutt extended his sympathies on behalf of the entire local community, city and country.

He stated: “On behalf of the people of the community of the Sacred Heart Parish, the people of Waterford City and County, and indeed the entire people of Ireland, I extend deepest sympathy to you, the English and Companjen families, on the tragic deaths of Philip, Kim, Callum and Jayden.

“Last Tuesday morning an act of total evil left a family and community devastated and heartbroken.

“I acknowledge on behalf of all, our gratitude to the first responders who did everything possible to save the lives of the family.

“I also acknowledge the staff at University Hospital Waterford and the staff at Crumlin Children’s Hospital.

“In Crumlin, Nadia and Elliott remain in critical condition and both are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.”

Fr Chestnutt described the feeling that many in the local community and beyond are feeling at this time.

“On Tuesday morning, forces of darkness came in the dark and devastated a family, taking four innocent lives.

“The feelings of all are clear: heartbreak, shock, devastation and, yes, anger.

“What comforting words can we find this day? For the families, you have received in so many ways an outpouring of love and support which, you can be assured, will continue from this day on.”

He paid tribute to the local community for the way in which it has responded to the tragedy.

“I speak to you now directly, the grieving community of the Sacred Heart Parish.

“For you are, always have been and always will be, the salt of the earth and the light of community life.

“Over all the years, you have stood together as a community that cares about each other. In times of joy and success and in times of sadness and grief, you have stood with each other. This community is stronger and better than forces that hide in the dark.

“You are a beacon of light, the salt of the earth and people with loving and embracing hearts. This community grieves because it loves.”

Fr Chestnutt went on to outline the personalities of Philip and Kim English.

“Philip was funny, lovable, sensitive and caring. Family always was his priority. Any photograph that you have seen of him sums him up, always smiling.

“Kim had a different personality to Philip: vocal and feisty, but the most loving, kind and caring person.

“As parents, they adored their children. Their life as a family was a journey of love. And there were many journeys as three of their children faced illness. Through all of that they were completely united and dedicated.”

He also described the personalities of the two children who died in the tragedy.

“Callum, that mischievous smile. The photograph put up by Johnville Football Club is him. The smile, the winner’s medal placed between his teeth. A lovable rogue.

“You tested the patience of family, friends, principal and teachers in Scoil Lorcain. But Callum, you were loved by all.

“Everyone in Johnville, in fact everybody in this community is heartbroken. On behalf of all of us, Callum, you are a winner. A dark deed took life from you but your light will shine forever.

“Jayden, a force of love, life and energy came into the world when you were born. Boundless energy, you rarely stayed still. You were full of fun and mischief.

“Very often you were heard before you were seen. Life was never dull at home, in the Birchwood Estate or at Saint Joseph’s School when you were around but you were adored by all.”

Fr Chestnutt spoke of the impact that the English family had on their local community.

“Finally, on my own behalf and on behalf of everybody in this community, to you, Philip, Kim, Callum and Jayden, thank you for being yourselves, a beautiful family who did no wrong to anybody.

“We are better people for knowing you, for you were the salt of the earth and lights in this community.”

The four members of the English family will be now laid to rest in Kilbarry Cemetery.

Hundreds of people attended the Mass, including family, friends, neighbours, local politicians and many public representatives.

The Government was represented by Waterford TDs and Ministers Mary Butler and John Cummins.

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald was also in attendance, as was Garda Superintendent Anthony Pettit.

Gardaí are continuing with their murder investigation into the fatal house fire in Birchwood on Tuesday last.

Jessica Dalton (31) and Cian Stacey (21) appeared in court over the weekend in connection with the arson attack.

They were each charged with one count of criminal damage and two counts of assault causing serious harm.

The pair were remanded in custody to appear before Waterford District Court tomorrow morning.