Members of religious congregations in the Diocese of Cork and Ross gathered in St Francis’ Church, Cork, on Saturday, January 31st for the Diocesan Celebration of Consecrated Life, led by Bishop Fintan Gavin.
Celebrated on the threshold of Candlemas, the liturgy of Evening Prayer highlighted Christ as Light of the Nations and reflected on consecrated life as a vocation that receives, reflects and shares that light with a world often marked by weariness and division.
The Liturgy was prepared b y a representative group of religious including Sr. Sheila Kelleher, Sr. Monica Mohally, Br. Denis Aherne, Fr. Laurence Kettle, and Br. Simon Fernandes.
The Gospel of the Beatitudes was proclaimed by Fr. Patrick Younge OFM and it is a fitting portrait of religious life — rooted in Christ, shaped by mercy and humility, and quietly fruitful in service.
Celebrating Consecrated Life in the Diocese of Cork and Ross at St. Francis' Church,
In his homily, Bishop Fintan spoke warmly of the witness of consecrated women and men in the diocese, thanking them for lives of faithful prayer, community and mission. He reflected on the blessing of St Brigid’s Crosses — crafted by students of St Aloysius Secondary School — as a simple yet powerful sign of faith handed on across generations, and a hopeful reminder that the Lord continues to call.
Encouraging religious to remain deeply rooted in Christ and sustained by prayer, he asked in a special way for their prayer for the renewal of the diocese, especially for young people discerning their vocation. The liturgy was followed by hospitality, allowing those present to meet, reconnect and give thanks together.
Cantors at the celebration of Consecrated Life included Sr. Patricia O’Donovan (Mercy) and Br. Stephen Holland OP.
Among the cantors at the Liturgy were Br. Widmaier Diogene (Presentation Brother) and Br. Jack Kennedy OP Pic: Brian Lougheed
Bishop Fintan Gavin blesses St. Brigid Crosses at the liturgy for Consecrated Life in the Diocese of Cork and Ross. Pic: Brian Lougheed
Some of the religious based in Cork and Ross with Bishop Fintan Gavin after the liturgy for Consecrated Life. Pic: Brian Lougheed
The INtercessions were read by Sr. Magdalene Tyosaah MMM and Sr. Keresifon Ekanem MMM.
