The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
KEEPING TRADITION ALIVE ON INNISFALLEN
TWENTY-THREE years is a long time but when viewed in the context of Innisfallen’s rich and ancient history it’s merely a ripple on the surface of Lough Leane. Over 300 Mass-goers made the short boat journey from Ross Castle on Friday evening for the annual Mass as the congregation met with beautifully manicured lawns and a special altar made by the OPW in 1994 at the site of the old monastery on arrival.
Established by Faithleann in the 7th century, this is ‘holy ground’ to all who make the yearly pilgrimage but especially for Mary O’Donoghue who reflects on another wonderful event where Mass was celebrated by Fr Geaney and Fr O’Donoghue, while two Friar Monks were also present.
“It was absolutely lovely and many people actually plan their holiday in Killarney around the Mass which tells you something of its appeal. There have been many prayers said over the years at this spot and you really appreciate the sense of antiquity and spirituality there,” said Mary.
The island’s most recent devotion started 23 years ago at the unveiling of a plaque to John McShane, who owned the island at the time. In fact, it was Mary’s late husband, Jeffery, who decided it would be nice to celebrate mass there. Jeffery was able to see his idea come to fruition on four occasions before he died.
“It’s a very special mass for me personally given Jeffery’s connection and we always remember him at the mass. It’s also a very special event for the people of Killarney as Innisfallen isn’t spoken about that much and its history isn’t widely known. Lough Leane is known as ‘the lake of learning’ and it still is in many ways.”
The ‘Annals of Innisfallen’ were compiled by the island’s monks over a duration of 300 years which today are kept at Oxford in the UK, something Mary believes should be reversed.
“They were produced here and therefore they belong here. It’s also the early history of Ireland and it’s a shame in one sense.” The High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, is also reputed to have been educated at Innisfallen.
“It really is a spiritual pilgrimage and I want to thank the clergy, boat men and all those who attended the mass. Everyone helps to make the mass happen, which is something special in itself,” Mary concluded.