Beloved Carmelite Priest, Father Emil Agostino, Dies at 87
Darien, IL – March 7, 2025 – The Carmelite Order is mourning the loss of Reverend Emil Agostino, O.Carm., who passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, at the age of 87. This breaking news story reflects the passing of a dedicated spiritual leader who touched countless lives through decades of service in education and parish ministry. This article provides a comprehensive look at Father Emil’s life and legacy, optimized for Google News and SEO to ensure rapid dissemination of this important information.
A Life Dedicated to Faith and Education
Born Francesco Emil Louis Agostino on November 17, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, to Emil Louis and Lottie Rita (Zieminski) Agostino, Father Emil’s journey to the priesthood began early. He attended Five Holy Martyrs Grade School before entering the Carmelite Junior Seminary in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, in 1951. His commitment deepened as he progressed through his studies at Mount Carmel College and ultimately entered the Carmelite Order in New Baltimore, Pennsylvania, in 1956, adopting the religious name Emil.
He professed his simple vows in 1957 and his solemn vows in 1960, culminating in his ordination as a priest in Niagara Falls, Ontario, on February 8, 1964. Father Emil’s passion for education led him to dedicate 27 years to teaching in Carmelite high schools, serving at Desales High School in Louisville, Kentucky (1964-1969), Mount Carmel High School in Chicago (1969-1972), Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein, Illinois (1972-1985), and as treasurer at Crepsi Carmelite High School in Encino, California (1985-1991). He continued his own education, earning a Master’s degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1968 and pursuing further studies at Bellarmine College, Catherine Spalding College, and Northern Illinois University.
From Parish Vicar to Shepherd: A Life of Service
In 1991, Father Emil transitioned to parish ministry, serving as a parish vicar at Santa Cecilia Parish in Englewood, New Jersey, until 1998. He then embraced the role of parish priest, leading the communities of San Bonifacio Parish in Scipio, Kansas, and Santa Teresa Parish in Richmond, Kansas, until his retirement in 2008. His pastoral care and spiritual guidance were deeply valued by the congregations he served.
Following his retirement, Father Emil resided at the Titus Brandsma Priory in Mundelein, Illinois, and later at Westwood Oaks Summer in Kankakee, Illinois, until his passing. He remained a beloved figure within the Carmelite community, offering wisdom and support to those around him.
Honoring Father Emil’s Legacy and Understanding the Carmelites
Visits for Father Emil Agostino, O.Carm., will be held on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 18:00 at the National Sanctuary of Santa Teresa, 8433 Bailey Road, Darien, Illinois, with the funeral mass following at 19:00. The mass will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person at https://carmelitemedia.tiny.us/fatheremil. The inhumation will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 10:00.
The Order of Carmelites, to which Father Emil dedicated his life, is one of the oldest religious orders in the Catholic Church, tracing its origins back to Mount Carmel in Palestine in the 12th century. Known for their contemplative spirituality and commitment to social justice, Carmelites emphasize prayer, community life, and service to others. Their charism – a special gift or calling – is to seek God in silence and to live a life of simplicity and humility.
Donations in memory of Father Emil Agostino, O.Carm., can be made to the Society of Mount Carmel, 1317 North Frontage Road, Darien, Illinois 60561. For further information about Father Emil or the Order of Carmelites, please contact Carmelite Media at 630-971-0724 or visit their website at www.carmelites.net.
Father Emil Agostino’s life stands as a testament to the power of faith, education, and selfless service. His dedication to the Carmelite Order and the communities he served will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Archyde.com remains committed to delivering timely and impactful breaking news, alongside evergreen content that provides context and understanding to the stories that matter most.
