World-renowned Dehon scholar dies

Fr. Paul (“PJ”) McGuire, SCJ, died of a stroke this afternoon (Feb. 22) in suburban Milwaukee. He was hospitalized in January with cardiac concerns; in recent weeks he had been at the Congregational Home in Brookfield, WI, for rehabilitation.

Born and raised in Jersey City, NJ, Fr. PJ was 73. He professed his first vows with the Priests of the Sacred Heart in 1960 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1968.

Immersed in academics most of his life, after completing his seminary studies at Sacred Heart Monastery (now Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology), Fr. P.J. earned both a master’s degree and doctorate in theology from Fordham University.

His first teaching assignment was at SHSST (1974-76). From there he went on to serve as a professor at the University of Illinois – Champaign (1976-78) and at Seton Hall University in New Jersey (1978-80).

In 1980 he was named pastor of Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary (now St. Martin of Tours) parish in Franklin, WI.

After a one-year sabbatical at Weston School of Theology in Cambridge, MA, Fr. P.J. returned to teaching, serving as both a professor and chaplain at Bellarmine College in Louisville, KY, from 1986-89. From 1989-93 he was a professor at Mt. Mary College in Milwaukee, WI.

In 1994 he became director of the Dehon Study Center for the US Province. His research on Fr. Leo John Dehon, and translation of many of the founder’s works, have benefited the entire congregation. He led retreats and classes on the Dehonian charism on just about every continent.

Fr. PJ was a well-received retreat director outside of formation as well. In 2014 he led four-day retreat for SCJs in Mississippi.

He also served on several province commissions and boards, as well as on the Provincial Council.

Funeral arrangements are pending.