Charleston priest to retire after nearly 60-year career

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The final mass for a priest who’s led Charleston’s Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for nearly 35 years will be an emotional one.

Monsignor Edward Sadie is retiring next month after serving as a priest for 59 years.

“I never thought I’d enjoy or want retirement. I intended to die on the job, but I think it’s time and I am prepared now to live somewhat more independently,” Sadie told MetroNews in an interview.

Sadie, a Parkersburg native, was ordained as a priest in 1957. He spent his career with the Wheeling-Charleston diocese and became rector of Sacred Heart in 1980. He also heads both Charleston Catholic High and Sacred Heart Grade schools.

He said he’s seen several changes in Charleston over the last few decades including new businesses, new bridges, a population decline and real estate development.

When Sadie moved to Charleston, he said the church did not have much space, so he expanded the parish into what it is today.

“The church was really landlocked. We had no sufficient parking. We did not have any space for meetings or parish gatherings,” he said. “I told the bishop when I came here that I would probably buy or attempt to buy every property I could hit with a rock.”

“I was happy to one by one pick them up and restore them to functional buildings,” he said with a smile.

Father Donald Higgs of St. Brendon’s Parish in Elkins will replace Sadie on June 16. Sadie’s retirement takes effect the day before on June 15. His last mass is scheduled for June 12.

“I think Father Higgs is a delightful choice,” Sadie said. “Very competent. He’s been pastor for some time. He’s had varies experiences around West Virginia. I think he’ll do very well here.”

Sadie said many people have “closed their eyes and ears to God’s mercy” and that he’s glad he was able to emphasize the Lord’s relationship with others during his time as pastor.

“I think I’m going to take that into my retirement — a better appreciation of the presence of God in other people and what should be the presence of God in ourselves,” he said.

After getting up at 5:30 a.m. every day for nearly 60 years, Sadie said he’s most looking forward to sleeping in.

“Instead of hitting the snooze alarm, I’ll turn off the alarm clock, smile and go back to sleep,” he said.





More News

News
As Yeager Airport's Wildlife Patrol Dog turns 7, a new dog comes in to learn from him
The new Border Collie is getting acclimated and receiving training for his soon-to-be role.
March 28, 2024 - 6:30 pm
News
Dunlow Volunteer Fire Department closes
The Dunlow VFD did not have a valid workers compensation insurance policy.
March 28, 2024 - 6:20 pm
News
PEIA examines financial effects of new law meant to ensure local pharmacies get fair reimbursements
Gov. Jim Justice signed Senate Bill 453 into law this week.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm
News
Barbour County woman sentenced after death case sent back to circuit court by Supreme Court
Carli Reed sentenced on voluntary manslaughter conviction.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm