Brian Johnson, long-time director of youth ministry, passes
June 20, 2017
Updated: June 23, 2017
Brian Johnson, the Director of the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, died June 19, 2017. The Baltimore native was 52 years old.
During his time as the OACE director, Johnson helped revolutionize the summer Archdiocesan Youth Conference (for high school teens) into one of the largest annual assemblies of its kind. Johnson was also a key contributor in the creation of a Catechetical Framework for Lifelong Faith Formation, the tool by which catechesis is organized and structured in the Archdiocese.
Throughout his nearly three decades in youth ministry, Johnson's spirit, determination and commitment touched and influenced the lives of countless young people. "Brian's leadership and engaging presence was an inspiration to the youth of our Archdiocese. He had a profound impact on not only the young people he served and their families, but also on the formation of youth ministry leaders," Cardinal DiNardo said. "The Archdiocese is very grateful for his service to the local Church. He will be truly missed."
In the last chapter of his life, Johnson dedicated himself to the renovations and expansion of Camp Kappe. He was passionate about transforming the campus into a space that would meet the needs of our youth for many years to come.
Cardinal DiNardo has asked the faithful to pray for the Johnson family and the OACE staff.
We would like to update you regarding Brian Johnson’s funeral arrangements. Because Brian was a native son of Baltimore, there will be services held in both the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and the Archdiocese of Baltimore. His funeral arrangements are provided below:
Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Visitation: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Vigil: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
St. Mary of the Purification Catholic Church
3006 Rosedale Avenue
Houston, Texas 77004
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Memorial/Funeral Liturgy: 9:30 a.m.
Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral
1111 St. Joseph Parkway
Houston, Texas 77002
Following the Memorial/Funeral Liturgy in Houston, Brian’s remains will be transported to Baltimore.
Archdiocese of Baltimore
Saturday, July 1, 2017
Wake: 9:00 a.m.
Mass: 10:00 a.m.
St. Matthew Catholic Church
5401 Loch Raven Blvd
Baltimore, Maryland 21239
Burial: Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens
Repast: St. Matthew after burial - light refreshments
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
Camp Kappe Youth Retreat Center
Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
c/o Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization
2403 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77021
Msgr. O’ Dwyer Retreat House
Archdiocese of Baltimore
P. O. Box 310
Sparks, Maryland 21152
Cards and Condolences for Brian Johnson can be sent to his sister at
Mrs. Renita Woodus
5 Aspen Glen Court
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Please continue to keep the Johnson Family and the staff of the OACE in your thoughts and prayers at this time of sorrow.