On Monday, the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was celebrated with great solemnity in the Parish Church in Limerick. This annual celebration saw special services appropriate to the occasion taking place at the church, which is dedicated to the Mother of God. The events yesterday were more significant than in previous years and will likely set a precedent for future Feast celebrations.

At the invitation of the Parish Pastor, Rev. James Shanahan, the Corporation attended the services in state, commencing at 12 o’clock with High Mass. A large congregation filled the church, which is a historically noteworthy structure dating back to 1749 and was beautifully decorated for the occasion. The streets of the parish were also adorned with bunting and religious mottos, demonstrating the religious fervor of the local community.

Members of the Corporation present included Alderman John O’Brien, Alderman P. M’Donnell, T. Prendergast, MP M. Joyce, and Councillors Sir Vincent Nash, Ralph Nash, and M. Prendergast, among others. Music during the Mass featured various compositions by Weber, Gounod, and others, performed by a talented group of musicians.

Following the High Mass, a procession featuring members of the Holy Family, the Children of Mary, and pupils of the Convent Schools, marched through the parish to the church, where they sang a hymn in honourof the Blessed Virgin. The celebrations also included a moving sermon by Rev. Father Murphy from Rathkeale and special evening services at the church, which enriched the feast day atmosphere in Limerick.

Northants Evening Telegraph – Tuesday 19 August 1902