Abbeyfeale, Monday – The Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer, Bishop of Limerick, visited Abbeyfeale on Sunday for his triennial visitation, administering the Sacrament of Confirmation to a substantial number of children. Following the midday Mass, his Lordship delivered a notable address, highlighting the positive transformations he observed during his recent visitations.
The Bishop commended the significant improvements he witnessed, noting a decline in drunkenness among the people and an overall increase in self-respect and religious commitment. He expressed pleasure at the heightened regularity of children attending schools and the progress of education in the visited districts. Dr O’Dwyer also acknowledged a remarkable improvement in the material conditions of both farmers and labourers, with the latter now inhabiting well-constructed and respectable cottages.
The Bishop reflected on the considerable changes in the lives of farmers who, just a few decades ago, faced the constant threat of eviction and were effectively treated as slaves. Now, they proudly own their lands, marking a substantial shift in their fortunes. Dr O’Dwyer attributed these positive changes to the workings of Providence, acknowledging the sacrifices and sufferings of previous generations.
During the customary interrogatories led by the Rev. Father Lee, P.P., it was revealed that an impressive 30,000 communicants approached the holy rails within the past year. The Bishop, while discussing educational matters, expressed his disapproval of the Mixed School system, stating his preference for separate schools in parishes where new educational institutions were erected.
After delivering the principal blessing, Dr O’Dwyer presided over the Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament, followed by the blessing of graves in the new cemetery. The afternoon was dedicated to the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, with the presence of several clergy members, including Father Lee, P.P., Father Greggan, P.P., Father Reeves, P.R., Father Halpin, C.C., and Father O’Riordan, C.C.
Freeman’s Journal – Tuesday 14 May 1912
