Thomas O'Shea (bishop)

Thomas O'Shea (8 March 1870 – 13 May 1954) was a New Zealand Roman Catholic prelate who served as the Archbishop of Wellington from 1935 to 1954.

Born in Waikouaiti, Otago, New Zealand, O'Shea was educated at St. Patrick's College, Wellington, and the Pontifical Irish College in Rome. He was ordained a priest in 1893.

O'Shea served as parish priest in several locations before being appointed titular Bishop of Geras and Coadjutor Bishop of Wellington in 1913. He succeeded Francis Redwood as Archbishop of Wellington in 1935.

During his tenure as Archbishop, O'Shea was involved in the expansion of the Catholic Church in New Zealand, particularly in education and social services. He played a significant role in the development of Catholic schools and hospitals within his archdiocese. He also served as president of the New Zealand Catholic Education Council.

O'Shea was known for his administrative skills and his commitment to the Catholic faith. He died in Wellington in 1954 and is remembered as a prominent figure in the history of the Catholic Church in New Zealand.