Jesuit liturgist Fr. Timoteo “Tim” Ofrasio, a famous liturgical music writer, succumbed to coronavirus on Tuesday, his congregation said.
The priest died around 8 pm at a hospital in San Pablo City, where he was admitted for treatment, reported CBCP News.
He was 72.
According to the Jesuit community website, Fr. Ofrasio was on home leave when he tested positive for the virus.
“He was hospitalized several days ago but seemed to be recovering,” the brief statement read.
This is to inform you that FR. TIMOTEO J.M. OFRASIO, SJ died about 8 pm this evening, December 1, 2020, in San Pablo General Community Hospital, San Pablo City. Fr. Tim, 72, had been on home leave and tested positive for the virus. He was hospitalized several days ago but seemed to be recovering. His death is quite unexpected, except that Covid-19 has often been seen to be more treacherous and deadly than anticipated. Fr. Tim entered the Society in 1969 and was ordained to the presbyterate in 1979.
Given continued virus restraints, Fr. Tim’s remains will likely be cremated and the ashes remain with his family for now. When feasible, they can eventually be brought to Loyola House of Studies for proper obsequies. Requiescat in pace.
“His death is quite unexpected, except that Covid-19 has often been seen to be more treacherous and deadly than anticipated,” it added.
Fr. Ofrasio was the lyricist behind some famous liturgical songs including Alay sa Diyos, Paghahandog ng Sarili, and Panalangin sa Pagiging Bukas-Palad.
Besides being a lyricist, he was also a noted professor in theology and liturgy in different seminaries.
Fr. Ofrasio entered the Society of Jesus in 1969 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1979.
He also served as consultor for the Episcopal Commission on Liturgy of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines from 1994 to 1997.
