It was with huge sadness that I heard the news of Daniel O’Leary’s death (“Coming home too soon”, 2 February). In addition to his immensely valuable contributions to The Tablet, he was a priest who led many people to a fuller understanding of God Incarnate.

My favourite memory of Donal was him celebrating a parish Mass at Garforth. After his homily, the lone altar server spoke to him. Donal nodded. Throughout the Mass, this occurred again and again. There was clearly something bothering the altar server. At the end of Mass Donal came to the lectern and said: “Michael would like us all to pray that Leeds United win their next match, so they go up in the league tables.” There was no condescension, no hint of him patronising the child, rather a clear example of Donal meeting a person where they were on their faith journey. 
His vision of God’s Incarnate Presence everywhere was something he both taught and lived. He was authentic. May he rest in peace.