The arrival of Dr O’Riordan, the new Rector of the Irish College in Rome, has drawn significant attention. Dr O’Riordan’s initial experiences and interactions have been detailed, shedding light on his reception and his impressions of the esteemed Pope.

On November 9th, Dr O’Riordan had the privilege of a private audience with the Holy Father. During this audience, he presented five students from the Irish College and conveyed the diocese of Galway’s Peter’s Pence offerings. Furthermore, he conveyed the loyalty and devotion of the Bishop, priests, and people of Limerick. Two notable addresses were laid before the Pope — one from the Confraternity of the Holy Family of Limerick, signed by prominent figures including Father O’Laverty, Father Creagh, and Father Marron, expressing their allegiance to the Holy See. The Pope was deeply pleased with the sentiments and the flourishing condition of the Confraternity.

A beautifully crafted casket of “St. Mary’s Oak,” adorned with Celtic tracery and the arms of the Holy Father and Limerick, contained an address in Latin and Gaelic from “Joo” Lynch of Limerick. To the surprise of Dr O’Riordan and Mr Lynch, the Pope responded with his own handwritten blessings at the foot of Mr Lynch’s address, demonstrating the significance he placed on this gesture.

Dr O’Riordan, reflecting on his encounter with Pope Pius X, noted the disparity between the photographs he had seen and the Pope’s actual appearance. He described the Pope as having a blend of amiability and seriousness on his countenance, and the genuineness of his smile was particularly striking.

The Irish Catholic also reported on Dr O’Riordan’s arrival, emphasizing the anticipation surrounding his presence in Rome. Dr O’Riordan’s journey to the Irish College commenced with his arrival at the Continental Hotel after a train journey. Subsequent events and interactions will continue to unfold as Dr O’Riordan takes up his role as the Rector of the Irish College in Rome.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 14 November 1905