Francis Magner

Background

Francis Magner was born in Wilmington, Illinois, to James and Margaret (née Follen) Magner. His father, who worked as a farmer and later became a merchant, also served as a city commissioner and alderman.

Education

After graduating from Saint Ignatius College in Chicago, Magner attended Saint Mary"s College in Kansas.

Career

He served as Bishop of Marquette from 1941 to 1947. He continued his studies in Rome at the Pontifical North American College. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Propaganda in 1909, and a bachelor"s degree in canon law from Apollinarus University in 1911.

While in Rome, Magner was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Chicago on May 17, 1913.

His first assignment, following his return to Illinois, was as a curate at Saint Mary Nativity Church in Joliet. He later served in the same capacity at Saint Pius V Church and Saint Mel Church, both in Chicago, and at Saint Francis Xavier Church in Wilmette.

He then served as pastor of Saint James Church in Highwood (1924-1927) and of Saint Mary Church in Evanston (1927-1941). He was named a monsignor in 1939.

On December 21, 1940, Magner was appointed the seventh Bishop of Marquette, Michigan, by Pope Pius XII. He received his episcopal consecration on February 24, 1941 from Archbishop Samuel Stritch, with Bishops Eugene J. McGuinness and William O"Brien serving as co-consecrators, at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago.

His installation took place at Saint Peter Cathedral in Marquette on the following March 20. During his six-year tenure, Magner provided attention to the mission parishes of the diocese, established the diocesan newspaper, promoted United States. Laymen"s Retreat Association, and created seven catechetical schools. He died after a long illness in Marquette, at age 60.

He is buried in the crypt of Saint Peter Cathedral.

Connections

Father:

James Magner

Mother:

Margaret (Follen) Magner