Tipperary says a sad farewell to much-beloved Chaplain at Mass of celebration

ON Friday, October 27 a Mass of celebration was held in St Cronan's Church in Roscrea to say farewell and show appreciation to Fr Lorcan Kenny for the 26 years of outstanding service he has given the Parishes of Roscrea, Bournea, Kyle and Knock.

Fr. Lorcan was the main celebrant and Mass was con -celebrated by nine of Fr. Lorcans colleagues and friends, some of whom traveled long distances to attend the very special occasion.

James Gleeson, one of Lorcan's first students, came forward at the beginning of the Mass to light a candle to represent all of his students over the 26 years.

The Mass was enhanced beautifully by Roscrea Youth Center Choir, the Church Choir led by Séamus Dyer and the Folk group led by Margaret Moloney. Tadhg Maher and Sophie Rowland sang 'A Mhuire Mhathair' and Mai Phelan played 'The Bells of Shandon' on the accordion. All the music was chosen by Fr. Lorcan and had special meaning to him.

There were 27 white candles lighting across the front of the Altar for Lorcan's students in Heaven. Fr. Lorcan said he prays to them dailu and is asking them to pray that the School will get a new Chaplin soon.

Pamela Landy, Chairperson of Roscrea Pastoral Council, welcomed everyone on the night and special welcome was given to Lorcans family, his colleagues from Colaiste Phobal both past and present and former students of all ages.

Fr. Lorcan is pictured above with Mary and Damian McKelvey, Eamonn Redmond, Meadbh Murray and Paul McKelvey - several of whom are students who developed a close frioendship with their Chaplain, in Roscrea Youth Centre after the Thanksgiving Mass. Photo: PJ Wright

Lorcan spoke about his time in Roscrea as being half his life and he would always remember the people of Roscrea in his prayers.

Lorcan thanked everyone involved in organising the night with a special thanks to his friend Anne -Marie Rowland.
In the 26 years of Fr. Lorcan's Ministry he has had a huge impact on countless numbers of young people through his job as Chaplain in Coláiste Phobal.

He treated every student with sensitivity and kindness, going above and beyond, year after year, to be there to support and help the students.

Fr. Lorcan has been involved with numerous organisations and projects in the community over the years. Roscrea Youth Centre has always been close to his heart and he will be hugely missed by the children and the Committee.

Fr Lorcan is pictured above with his friends and local photographers Sean Hogan (left) and PJ Wright

Lorcan has a great connection with Sr. Mona and Sr. Eileen Maher and the two girls Elizabeth and Christine. He has raised money for Uganda through all the little things, like-no uniform days, coppers for sr. Mona, singing Christmas Carols, street collections, cake sales and the proceeds from his three books.

Fr. Lorcan was thanked for all his work, prayers and friendship and for being a huge part of the story of Roscrea.
Fr. John Molloy (PP)and Fr. Tom Corbett (AP) presented Lorcan with a beautiful bog oak piece carved by Para Havatitye representing unconditional love being poured onto the nations of the world.

Sean Rowland presents Fr. Lorcan with a candle display made of ash wood. Photo: PJ Wright

Fr Tom spoke with emotion about Lorcan's easy personality and his willingness to always help those around him. Fr. Tom wished him every blessing in his new Parish and said our loss is Portroe's gain.

After Mass everyone was welcomed to Roscrea Youth Centre where Bernie Teehan had prepared a delicious array of cakes and sandwiches and teas and were enjoyed by all.

See the full collection of pictures from the event in this week's edition of The Midland Tribune - on sale now