Cushing, Richard James (1895-1970), an American religious leader, was named a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church in 1958 by Pope John XXIII. He had gained wide recognition as a gifted writer and preacher. Ordained as a priest in 1921, Cushing engaged in parish work in Boston until the late 1930’s. He was named auxiliary bishop of Boston in 1939. He served as archbishop of the archdiocese from 1944 until shortly before his death. Cushing was a close family friend of United States President John F. Kennedy. He delivered the invocation (opening prayer) at Kennedy’s inauguration and celebrated the marriage and funeral Masses of the president. Cushing was born in South Boston on Aug. 24, 1895. He died on Nov. 2, 1970.
