In Memoriam: The Eparchy Mourns the Passing of Most Reverend William F. Murphy, Bishop Emeritus of Rockville Centre

The St. Mary, Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada joins the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre and the universal Church in mourning the passing of the Most Reverend William F. Murphy, Bishop Emeritus of Rockville Centre. Bishop Murphy entered into eternal life on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the age of 85. Serving as the fourth Bishop of Rockville Centre from 2001 until his retirement in 2016, Bishop Murphy was a devoted shepherd, a distinguished leader, and a true friend to the Eastern Catholic Churches. The Syro-Malankara Catholic faithful in North America hold a profound and enduring gratitude for his visionary leadership and extraordinary generosity, which played a foundational role in the establishment and structural growth of our Eparchy. In 2013, it was through Bishop Murphy's fraternal love and pastoral care that the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church procured its first Cathedral in North America. By graciously transitioning the St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Elmont, New York, to our community, Bishop Murphy provided the Syro-Malankara faithful with a permanent spiritual home. This monumental act of generosity also provided our Exarchate—now Eparchy—with its Chancery and Bishop's Residence, establishing a headquarters that continues to serve the spiritual needs of our faithful across the United States and Canada today. This historic gesture stands as a testament to Bishop Murphy’s deep commitment to the universal communion of the Catholic Church and his immense love for the diverse liturgical traditions that enrich it. Because of his welcoming spirit and collaborative vision, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church was able to firmly plant its roots in North America and flourish. On behalf of our Eparchial Bishop, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos, along with the clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the St. Mary, Queen of Peace Eparchy, we extend our most heartfelt condolences to His Excellency Most Rev. John O. Barres, the clergy, and the faithful of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, as well as to Bishop Murphy’s family and loved ones. We offer our fervent prayers for the repose of his soul. May the Lord, the Good Shepherd, welcome Bishop Murphy into His heavenly kingdom and reward him for his decades of faithful, tireless service to the Church.