Msgr. Andrew J. Cassin

Monsignor Andrew James Cassin, 94, of Staunton, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Friday, February 23, 2024, at Blue Ridge Christian Homes in Raphine.

Born on January 12, 1930, in Tullaherin, County Kilkenny, Ireland to the late William and Alice (O’Keefe) Cassin, he enjoyed growing up on the family farm. He attended seminary at St. Kieran’s College and was ordained on June 6, 1954. Following ordination, he was assigned to the Archdiocese of Washington, DC.
 
Msgr. Cassin was first assigned to St. Joseph Parish on Capitol Hill, where he served as associate pastor for ten years. This was followed by the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament at Chevy Chase Circle for four years, St. Bernardine Parish, which he was assigned to establish, in Suitland, MD for eight years, St. Pius X Parish in Bowie, MD, and finally St. Peter’s Parish in Waldorf, MD until his retirement in 2000. In addition, he spent many years of his retirement celebrating Mass once a month at Dahlgren Navy Base and offering an adult education class.
 
In the spring of 2001, when Father John Abe was pastor at St. Francis, Msgr. Cassin happened to be visiting friends in Highland County and came to Staunton for Mass. He once told Steve Neill of The Catholic Virginian, “One Saturday evening, I drove to Staunton for Mass at St. Francis of Assisi and came dressed in a plaid sport shirt. I was so impressed at how everything was carried out.” He told Fr. Abe how inspired he felt by the reverence given to the liturgy. Once Fr. Abe found out that this stranger was, in fact, a priest, he asked Msgr. Cassin to come back the next weekend to substitute at Mass so that he could attend an event. Before long, Msgr. Cassin was well established as assisting priest at St. Francis, celebrating Mass, hearing confessions, and teaching Christian education classes for young people.
 
Msgr. Cassin’s passion for the education of youth and seminarians was evident throughout his life. From his time at St. Pius X, where he met now-Bishop Barry Knestout and helped him join the seminary; to completing an addition to the school of St. Peter’s in Waldorf; and to his time in Staunton where he met now-Father James Waalkes and helped him along his faith journey; as well as countless others over the years who would not be where they are today if not for his guidance and wisdom. His homilies, lessons, stories, and wit will be greatly missed.
 
In addition to his loving parents, Msgr. Cassin was preceded in death by his brothers, Richard and Jimmy Cassin.
 
He is survived by his sister-in-law, Mary, and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all residing in Ireland. In addition to his Irish family, he is also survived by his beloved parish family. While not related by blood, Msgr. Cassin's passing evokes a profound sense of loss and mourning within his spiritual family of St. Francis. His departure leaves behind a spiritual void, as parish members deeply lament the absence of his guidance, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the teachings of Christ. In honoring his memory, they find solace in the legacy of faith and service he leaves behind, inspiring them to continue their journey of faith with renewed passion and dedication.
 
Special thanks to the devoted staff of Blue Ridge Christian Home, Dr. John "Rob" Marsh, Brenda Salins, Darren Adair, and the priests and staff of St. Francis, Staunton, and St. Patrick, Lexington, for tending to all of the physical and spiritual needs of Msgr. Cassin.
 
Beginning on the morning of Thursday, February 29, 2024, and continuing until the evening of Monday, March 4, 2024, Msgr. Cassin will lie in repose at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton. Friends and acquaintances are welcome to pay their respects and offer prayers during normal business hours.

A memorial gathering of friends in that well-loved “Irish wake” tradition will take place on Monday, March 4, 2024, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Henry Funeral Home. A rosary will be said during this time at approximately 7:00 PM.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Waynesboro. Interment will follow immediately after the Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Cemetery in Staunton.

It is suggested that those desiring may make memorial contributions to Catholic education or seminarian formation organizations.

The Funeral will be livestreamed, available on St. John’s website, https://www.stjohnevan.com/   and with this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaBZ5y6QBpM