08/06/2026
Your sweetest smile and cute funny jokes will remain beautifully deep in our warrior hearts, Father Martin ๐ฅน
I remember whenever we make โmanoโ to you you will hold our hands long enough to make good conversations. You will ask how are we and reminding us to always wear our smile and be happy. We found a friend in you, Father and we thank you for that. ๐ซถ๐ป โจ
Truly, we will miss you po! And I am grateful you became a part of my warrior journey in UEโค๏ธ๐ค
Rest in His loving arms our Father Smiley ๐๏ธ We pray for your beautiful soul be rest in peace โ๏ธ ๐คโจ
In Loving Memory of Rev. Fr. Bernard O. Martin, MSSC (1930โ2026)
It is with profound sadness that the University of the East community learns of the passing of our beloved Warrior Priest, Rev. Fr. Bernard O. Martin, MSSC, who peacefully passed away last night in his hometown of Ballymena, Northern Ireland, at the age of 96.
Fr. Bernard dedicated his life to God, to missionary service, and to the countless people whose lives he touched through his ministry. Affectionately known as "Erps" by generations of Warriors, he became a beloved member of the UE family through his unwavering faith, warm presence, and genuine care for students, faculty members, employees, alumni, and administrators.
A missionary priest of the Missionary Society of St. Columban, Fr. Bernard arrived in the Philippines in 1957 and devoted much of his priestly life to serving the Filipino people. His years of service at the University of the East, spanning a total of 25 years, made him a familiar and cherished figure in the University's spiritual life. Through daily Masses, counseling, guidance, and participation in countless University celebrations and activities, he helped shape generations of Warriors not only in faith but also in character.
When he retired and returned to Ireland in 2018, Fr. Bernard left the UE community with a simple yet enduring message: to take care of one another, to be friendly, to treat every person as unique and special, and to make UE a happy place. These words remain a lasting reminder of the values he embodied throughout his life.
Today, we give thanks for Fr. Bernard's extraordinary journey of faith and service. His kindness, humility, wisdom, and joyful spirit will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he has returned to the Father's house, the legacy he leaves behind continues to live in the hearts of the countless lives he touched.
The University of the East joins his family, friends, fellow Columban missionaries, and the wider Church community in mourning his passing and celebrating a life well lived in service of God and humanity.
Thank you, Fr. Bernard Martin, for your faithful service, your friendship, your guidance, and your love for the UE community. You will always remain a Warrior Priest in our hearts.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Rev. Fr. Bernard O. Martin, MSSC
1930โ2026
"Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)
