Religious Figures Honoured In Limerick

Most Rev. Donal Murray, Bishop of Limerick, Right Rev. Michael Mayes, former Church of Ireland Bishop, and the Franciscan Order will receive the highest accolade that the Local Authority can award to an individual, group or organisation.

Bishop Murray is being honoured in recognition of the silver jubilee of his Episcopal Consecration and his continuing service to the people of Limerick.

Educated at Blackrock College, Dr Murray studied for the priesthood at Clonliffe College, St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, and the Angelicum in Rome, where he was awarded a doctorate of divinity. Ordained in May 1966 Dr Murray became the youngest member of the Hierarchy when appointed as auxiliary Bishop of Dublin in April 1982.

Dr Murray is the first to be appointed bishop from outside of the Diocese of Limerick for two centuries. He was installed at St. John's Cathedral, Limerick, on Sunday 24 March 1996.

According to Councillor Kevin Sheahan, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, "As a respected author in the areas of theology, ethics and social issues, Dr. Murray is cogently aware of the many issues facing members of his Church. This is very apparent in the way he comfortably, delicately and effectively handle matters of significance for members of the Church, as well as the wider community here in Limerick."

He added, "By serving the public with thoroughness and honesty you have brought great acclaim to the Catholic Church, the Diocese of Limerick and those you have worked with you down through the years. Therefore, Limerick County Council is delighted to formally recognise you for your fantastic contribution to the Catholic Church and the wider community in Limerick."

The Cathaoirleach said that Limerick County Council was also delighted to provide a Civic Reception for the Right Rev. Michael Mayes to mark his retirement as Church of Ireland Bishop of Limerick, Killaloe and Ardfert after forty-three years in the ordained ministry.

In April 1993, he was elected as Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh and in 2000 he was translated to the Diocese based in Limerick following the vote of the Electoral College. Since 2000, Bishop Mayes has taken special responsibility for the area of international development work.

Councillor Sheahan commented, "Since his arrival in the Midwest, Rev Mayes has served his Church members and the wider community well. By holding a Civic Reception in his honour, the Council is expressing its sincere appreciation of his ministry."

He continued, "Anyone who knows Michael Mayes is aware of his great intellectual ability, wise pastoral care and warm personality. He is greatly missed by the whole Church of Ireland and in particular by those who have served most closely with him. I wish him and his wife Beth many long and happy years in their retirement."

Meanwhile, the Franciscan Order, which last week closed its main friary in Limerick, is being honoured in recognition and commemoration of more than seven hundred and thirty years of service to the people of the county.

The Franciscan Order’s main friary was established in 1267 while the present church and friary were opened in 1886 and reconstructed in 1929.

The friary on Henry Street provided an array of services, especially the sacramental services of Mass, Confessions, preaching, and parlour blessings.

Councillor Sheahan said the Franciscan Order also played a much broader role in society and its members were valued members of the local community.

He stated, "Indeed, my own native Askeaton is immensely proud of its close ties with the Order. The Franciscan Friary there was built around 1400AD and to this day remains a prominent landmark and visitor attraction in the town."

"I have no doubt that the Franciscan Order will continue to contribute valuably to all facets of life around Ireland and beyond for many years to come", the Cathaoirleach concluded.

Today’s Civic Reception takes place at 4.30pm in Adare Manor, County Limerick.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors:
- Cllr. Kevin Sheahan, Chairperson of Limerick County Council (087-2926333) is available for interview and further comment
- High resolution images of the Civic Reception will be available on request later today
- For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 086-8534900 or media@dunphypr.com

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
00353-868534900 (mobile)
00353-656839692 (fax)