AN EAST END community is mourning the loss of a well-loved priest. 

Saint Michael's Church, in Parkhead, announced the death of Father Frank O'Rourke on Sunday afternoon, April 24.

He had served the Archdiocese of Glasgow for 68 years as a priest and celebrated his 60th anniversary - Diamond Jubilee - of priesthood in 2015.

A Facebook post read: "We are sorry to announce that Fr. Frank O’Rourke has sadly passed away.

"We are beyond words. He will be an incredible loss to our Parish community.

"Fr. Frank served our parish for a very long time and has most definitely left a legacy here at St. Michael’s.

"His life was devoted to Christ and his love of the Mass will forever be remembered.

"Please pray for the repose of his soul and pray for his family at this very difficult time."

We are sorry to announce that Fr. Frank O’Rourke has sadly passed away. We are beyond words. He will be an incredible...

Posted by St Michael’s RC Church Parkhead on Sunday, 24 April 2022

The Archdiocese of Glasgow also paid tribute to the priest in a tweet: "The sad news of the death of Father Frank O’Rourke was announced this afternoon.

"Please remember Fr Frank and his family in your prayers.

"Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

"Fr Frank had served God and the people of the archdiocese for 68 years as a priest."

Saint Michael's said the church will remain open after the 12.30pm mass today, Monday, April 25, until 6.30pm to allow parishioners "to pray for the repose of the soul of Fr. Frank O’Rourke".