In Memoriam: John R. Donahue, S.J.

In Memoriam:

CBA mourns the passing of John R. Donahue, SJ, who died on October 28, 2024 at Colombiere Jesuit Community in Baltimore at the age of 91.  A member of CBA since 1969, John studied theology at Woodstock College 1961-65 (S.T.L.) and achieved his Ph.D. in New Testament at the Divinity School at University  of Chicago in 1972, his dissertation focusing on the Gospel of Mark. 

After earning his doctorate, John taught NT at Woodstock College (1972-73) and Vanderbilt University (1973-80), From 1980-2001, he served as Professor of New Testament at the Jesuit School of Theology, Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, California (1980-90 and1992-2001) and at the University of Notre Dame (1990-1992). In 2001, John was named the Raymond E. Brown Distinguished Professor of New Testament Studies at St. Mary’s Seminary & University in Baltimore, Maryland. From 2001-2016 John also taught NT at Loyola University Maryland as a Research Professor.

John was active in CBA, serving as its President President (1993-94), Consultor to the Executive Board (1974-76), CBQ Associate Editor (1985-92) and member of the Nominations Committee (1995-99).

In addition to his many books, largely on the Gospel of Mark, John was a columnist for America and contributed to Commonweal. He also participation in ecumenical dialogues both nationally and internationally.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Please remember and pray for those who have gone before us. If you are aware of the recent passing of a CBA member please inform the CBA office: cba-office@cua.edu or 202-319-5519.