Monsignor Pádraig – méadú ar a ghlóire sna flaithis

THE rich legacy passed on by Monsignor Pádraig Ó Fiannachta was recognised by the board of An Diseart at a meeting on Friday. The sense of loss felt by members of the board at his death was conveyed in a message of sympathy to his family.

The board expressed its commitment to continue the work of an Diseart as a centre for the promotion of Celtic Spirituality and Culture for the local community and for visitors alike.

Fr. Jim Sheehy was elected chairman and Joan Maguire vice chairperson. An Dr. Tadhg Ó Dúbhshláine will continue the publishing work of An Sagart and, with the board, will seek to provide courses and activities with university accreditation. Padraig Feirtéar was appointed secretary. Máire Uí Shithigh, Isabel Bennet, Pádraig Foley, Paidí Ó Fiannachta, Richard Williams, Sr. Maire de Bhál and Sr. Evelyn Maguire continue as board members with John Sheehy as accountant.

Fr. Jim expressed his commitment to supporting the board in building on the foundations already laid down and to work, together with the local community, towards the realization of Monsignor Padraig’s vision and dream for the Diseart.

Father Jim Sheehy, a native of Ballintaggart, was born in 1943 and ordained to the priesthood in 1968. He spent 40 years in the Diocese of Salford. His final nine years, before returning home in 2008, were spent as spiritual director and teaching spirituality at Ushaw College in Durham.

The board appreciates greatly the support of the Presentation sisters for the work of An Diseart and through this their support for the community.

Monsignor Pádraig Ó Fiannachta and Fr. Jim Sheehy at the Famine Chapel on Cnoc a’ Cairn.