The Most Reverend Tom Shortell, OSFC passed from this life to eternity on April 28, 2017. He left many friends and family and a loving spouse, Gabriel, behind. Bishop Tom’s legacy will be one of greatness in simplicity.
He was raised in New England and moved to Charlotte, NC where he lived, worked and ministered for over 20 years. Always the student, he was able to bring to life the Bible and theological ideas with an ease and availability that gave clarity and insight to the hearer. Eager to help he ministered to the Latino populations of Charlotte, NC and Buenavista de Cuellar in Guerro Mexico. Bishop Shortell worked to improve the lives and social status of those marginalized by society, especially immigrants and those battling HIV/AIDS. In leading these people they were cared for. He was their go to priest often-times taking them from Baptism through the Sacraments to their funeral mass. He was loved and much admired.
Tom was a Franciscan at heart and was a member of the Order of Saints Francis and Clare. He very active in the UACC serving as vocation director, researching ideas for the Church and serving as Bishop. Tom was consecrated Bishop in 2015 after which he served as Chancellor of the United American Catholic Church.
Bishop Tom may be known to many of you through his writings. They show the depth of his wisdom. His life shows the simplicity of a man in love with Christ.
Bishop Tom Shortell will not only be missed in the UACC but in the Independent Catholic Movement as a whole. We have lost a fine Bishop but gained a great friend in heaven.
