In Limerick, Reverend Father R.J. Ambrose took a stand against certain degrading practices associated with drinking and anti-Irish customs, particularly at wedding festivities, wakes, and other situations where such behavior promotes intemperance. During a recent sermon, Father Ambrose emphasized the progress that has been made in tackling these practices since the visit of Father McNamara in Limerick. He criticised the custom of dressing as “Zulus” to obtain drinks at wedding celebrations and interfering with respectable guests’ enjoyment.

Father Ambrose argued that these outdated and un-Irish practices may have been instituted by foreign aristocrats wanting amusement, urging the congregation to resist adopting these customs and to focus on preserving their Irish heritage. As a result, wedding festivities have seen a decline in “sapping” in the region, indicating a shift toward rooting out destructive and anti-Irish customs.

This initiative led by Father Ambrose demonstrates the community’s dedication to addressing crucial issues within their society and reclaiming their genuine customs. As these efforts continue, the residents of Limerick are working to ensure that future generations are not swayed by harmful practices, fostering a stronger sense of cultural pride and identity.

Kerry News – Monday 16 February 1903