A significant commemoration unfolded in Limerick recently, marking the 200th anniversary of the Dominican Order’s presence in the city and the consecration of St. Saviour’s Church on Glentworth Street. The culmination of festivities occurred on Sunday evening, drawing to a close a series of religious observances.

The event commenced with a Novena of Masses at the Shrine of Our Lady of Limerick, where devotees offered prayers of thanksgiving to the Blessed Virgin for both spiritual and temporal blessings bestowed upon the benefactors, both living and deceased, of the Dominican Church and Priory.

Throughout the preceding week, a solemn Triduum was held at St. Saviour’s Church, attracting large congregations each day to partake in the devotional services. The climax of these ceremonies took place on Sunday, with the capacious church filled to capacity for both the morning and evening rites.

High Mass, presided over by the Bishop of Limerick, commenced promptly at noon, with the Very Reverend Father Fahy, O.P., serving as celebrant. Assisting him were Reverend Father Kelly, O.P., as deacon, and Reverend Father Keane, O.P., as sub-deacon, while Reverend Father Dubin, O.P., acted as master of ceremonies.

During the morning service, a special sermon was delivered by the Reverend Dr Murphy, O.S.A., reflecting on the historical significance of the occasion and the enduring legacy of the Dominican Order in Limerick and beyond.

In the evening, the congregation was treated to another poignant sermon, this time delivered by the Reverend Father McSweeney, O.P., M.A., from St. Mary’s Church in Cork. Following the sermon, the Te Deum hymn resounded throughout the church, heralding a moment of reflection and gratitude. The ceremony concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, a solemn ritual invoking divine blessings upon all present.

The festivities served not only as a celebration of the Dominican Order’s rich history but also as a reaffirmation of the enduring faith and devotion of the community in Limerick. As the congregation dispersed, the echoes of prayers and hymns lingered, a testament to the enduring spiritual significance of the occasion.

The Double Centenary celebration stands as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of religious faith and tradition in shaping the cultural and spiritual landscape of Limerick and its people.

Freeman’s Journal – Wednesday 01 November 1916