Born in 1905, Father Paschal came to Ampleforth in 1917 from which date he grew to be one of the Ampleforth institutions. From a very early age he was afflicted with asthma which continued till the end of his life and this combined with his great love of games which he played continuously was a direct cause of his very sudden death on the cricket field.
He joined the Novitiate in 1926 after spending a year studying architecture at Bristol. On account of asthma and broken nights monastic observance cost him much from the very beginning. He found study difficult, but eventually by sheer hard work he became a very useful teacher in various subjects, having a special knack of interesting the boys and bringing on especially the backward ones with whom he had great sympathy.
As the years went on, Father Paschal's energy and drive showed itself in many activities, in games, orchestra, and jobs of all sorts, pleasant and unpleasant, in which he showed himself a versatile handyman.
One of the great works of his life was undoubtedly Scouting, into which he threw himself with untiring devotion. His work in this sphere was recognized, not only by Ampleforth, but also by the Chief Scout, who awarded him a decoration for his services.
His many activities in the School, which included the Corps and A.R.P. work, brought him into contact with the majority of the boys and servants.
As a priest, Father Paschal served for years in the neighbouring villages and occasionally on our Missions. He preached extremely well, making his points with great clarity.
He will be remembered by all those with whom he came into contact for his unfailing willingness and charitableness of thought and action. His mind always ran on charitable lines, clearly seen when he spoke of others for one could be quite sure that what he said about them would be of praise. He loved his work naturally and supernaturally and was unfailing in sympathy for those who needed it.
Deus caritas est, et qui manet in caritate in Deo manet, et Deus in eo.
FRANCIS PASCHAL HARRISON 2 July 1949
1905 25 Jun Born Bodmin
Educ Ampleforth
1926 17 Sep Habit at Ampleforth
1927 5 Sep$$ Simple Profession
1930 18 Sep Solemn Vows Abbot Matthews
29 Dec Tonsure " "
30 Dec " " "
1931 2 Jan Minor Orders " "
19 Jul Subdeacon Bishop Vaughan
1932 24 Jul Deacon
1934 22 Jul Priest Bishop Shine
1936 Sep to 1940 Assistant at Junior House
1949 2 Jul Died suddenly on the cricket field