St Joseph's Society
Sidney Francis Breen was born on 31st January 1914 in Liverpool, the son of Philip and Ann Breen. His early education was at Mount Pleasant Convent. He studied for priesthood at St. Joseph's College, Upholland and Ushaw College, Durham. He was ordained on 18th May, 1940, in the Chapel at St Joseph's, Upholland. His first appointment was as Assistant Priest at St Oswald's, Ashton in Makerfield.
In September 1942, he returned to St Joseph's College, where he held various positions. Initially he served as Prefect for the Junior House and in 1945 he lectured in Philosophy for students from the Beda College, Rome, who had relocated to Upholland during the Second World War. In 1946 he became Lecturer in Philosophy for the Upholland students and became Prefect for the senior students. In 1955 he was appointed Procurator and in 1957 Vice-Rector. In 1958 he was created a Domestic Prelate with the title Right Reverend Monsignor and was appointed as Rector of the College.
He left Upholland in 1972 when he was appointed Parish Priest of St Paul's, West Derby. He was appointed Parish Priest of St Mary's, Little Crosby, in 1975, where he remained until his retirement in 1992.
His former parishioners and friends will remember him as a very kind man, with a delightful sense of humour, who was totally faithful in his service of the Church. He was loved by everybody and cared deeply about his parishioners both individually and as a Parish Family. His great faith and devotion shone through all his work.
In retirement he lived in Thornton and died peacefully at the age of 93 on the morning of Sunday 4th February 2007. May he rest in peace.