St. Mary’s Catholic Church reverberated with special and impressive ceremonies on Sunday as the parishioners gathered to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin. The event was marked by a Solemn High Mass at noon, presided over by Reverend J. McCurter from Melbourne, who was visiting Ireland. Assisting him were Reverend M. Murphy from St. John’s as the deacon, Reverend J. Kea from St. Mary’s as the sub-deacon, and Reverend John Griffin from St. John’s as the master of ceremonies. The Mass featured Weber’s compositions, except for the Offertory, which showcased Cherubini’s work.

The musical performances were exceptional, with notable soprano soloists such as Mrs. Casey, Miss T. Halpin, Mrs. Cooke, and Miss Bassett. The tenor soloists included Mr Piggott, Mr James O’Halloran, Mr Greg, Mr S. Bradley, and Mr Daly. The bass was skillfully handled by Mr David Tidwarsh and Mr Ralph Nash. Accompanied by the talented Miss Cooper on the organ, the music added to the solemnity of the occasion.

The church was beautifully adorned, particularly the high altar, which was adorned with tastefully arranged bunches of cut flowers. The church grounds were also decorated, with streamers and mottoes invoking the Mother of God fluttering in the breeze. One motto hanging over the outer gate read, “May the Faith of Patrick never fail.” The attendance was immense, and the church was filled to its maximum capacity. Worshipers from all parts of the city flocked to St. Mary’s to participate in the annual celebration of the Great Mystery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

The Mayor, along with the City High Sheriff, the sergeants-at-mace, and several members of the Corporation, attended the event in an official capacity, occupying seats in the nave. Among the attendees were Alderman P. McDonnell and Aldermen John Slattery, D. Dehan, C. Johnson, J. Shanahan, J. Sheahan, R. Nash, M. McLernon, M. Murphy, and M. Prendergast, along with other Corporation officials.

During the Mass, after the First Gospel, the Very Reverend Father Nolan, O.S.A., delivered a profound and captivating sermon, which held the congregation’s undivided attention. Father Nolan chose the text “Who is this that cometh up from the desert, flowing in delights, leaning on her beloved” from the Book of Canticles (Chapter 8, Verse 5) as the focal point of his discourse.

Father Nolan stated that this question was one that all Christians should contemplate, especially those gathered in that venerable church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Although the question could not be answered definitively, Father Nolan provided insights by reflecting on three significant events related to the Feast: Our Lady’s blissful death, her glorious Assumption, and her triumphant Coronation.

Regarding the first point, Father Nolan spoke about how Mary, through her Immaculate Conception, was an exceptional figure in human history, untouched by sin. Her death was not a typical mortal’s experience but a consummation of love, as she longed to be reunited with her Divine Son.

Moving to the second point of the Assumption, Father Nolan referred to the tradition that the Apostles were summoned to Jerusalem and heard heavenly music as the Blessed Virgin Mary passed away. After three days, when St. Thomas was allowed to view her body, the tomb was found empty. Father Nolan emphasized that Mary’s purity deserved the glory of the Assumption.

Lastly, Father Nolan spoke of Mary’s triumphant Coronation in Heaven, attributing it to her profound humility. He quoted the words of Jesus, “Those who humble themselves shall be exalted, and those who exalt themselves shall be humbled.” Mary’s humility and her love for the poor earned her the crown of glory.

Father Nolan praised the Irish people’s devotion to the Mother of God, particularly the Limeckians, who held an unwavering faith in the inseparable bond between the Child and the Mother, even during times of persecution and danger. He encouraged the congregation to invoke the patronage of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is known as the “Comfortress of Sinners,” both in their lives and at the hour of death.

The celebration of the Feast of the Assumption at St. Mary’s Parish was a testament to the deep devotion and reverence of the worshipers, reaffirming their faith in the Mother of God and her significant role in their spiritual lives.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 23 August 1904