The Council Chamber at the Town Hall became a focal point of honour and admiration as a substantial and diverse assembly convened today at one o’clock. This gathering, representative of the city and county’s populace, was orchestrated to present Dr O’Riordan with a heartfelt address and a testimonial. The esteemed event was presided over by the Mayor, Alderman Joyce.
Amidst the attendees were notable figures including Very Rev. Dr O’Riordan, Very Rev. T.R. Shanahan, Rev. James H. Cregan, Rev. J.A. O’Connor, Rev. John Lee, Rev. Father Liston, Mrs. Harriet O’Brien of South Hill, Mrs. O’Brien of R16, Miss Doyle, Mrs. Fitzjames Kelly of Sixmile Bridge, Myra Delacy, Sir Vincent Nash, Mr James Flynn (City High Sheriff), Major Frost, H.J. Guinane, D.S. Doyle (solicitor), John Barry, David Beasley, J.J.F. Browne, J.H. Roche, Patrick Hartigan, James Wallace, Jeremiah Anglim, A. de Prins, J. O’Mahony, J. Cable, N.A. Brophy, J. Slattery, C. Johnson, W. Lloyd, S. Hastings (solicitor), Kiely, P. Fitzgerald, John Clune, P.J. O’Sullivan (solicitor), Dr J. Holmes, J.P. Guinane, Michael Brett of Munster & Leinster Bank, W.M. Nolan (Town Clerk), Dr Mulenby, Dr McGrath, F. Corbett, P. Vaughan (Chairman of Limerick County Council), John Donovan (solicitor), J. O’Malley, Bx; D. Fino, J. McCann (National Bank), R. Roche (Secretary of Limerick County Council), Alderman S. O’Mara, J.F. Power, Dr P.F. Graham, W.J. Halpin, M. Maguire, and several other distinguished individuals.
Mayor Alderman Joyce commenced the gathering, expressing his pride at the impressive turnout gathered on such short notice. The assembly’s rapid formation, initiated when it became known that Dr O’Riordan would be departing, highlighted the citizens’ commendable responsiveness. The Mayor proceeded to recount that Dr O’Riordan had expressed a preference for a non-monetary tribute, suggesting an address as a manifestation of respect. However, the citizens felt that tangible appreciation was deserved, leading to the decision to extend a more substantive offering than an address alone.
Dr O’Riordan’s departure from their midst, as the Mayor reiterated, is undoubtedly a gain for Rome but a loss to Ireland in a certain sense. Yet, Limerick takes pride in seeing one of its own elevated to such a distinguished position as Ireland’s ambassador to the Holy See. The Mayor, speaking on behalf of the citizens, emphasized the deep-rooted affection and esteem they hold for Dr O’Riordan. This admiration is a result of his multifaceted contributions—whether as the President of the Catholic Literary Institute, a lecturer at St. Michael’s Temperance Society, or his charitable endeavours within the alleys and lanes of St. Michael’s Parish.
In his closing remarks, the Mayor extended wishes for Dr O’Riordan’s prosperity in his new role and expressed hopes for his eventual return to his native land, where he would be received with warmth and enthusiasm.
Sir Vincent Nash proceeded to read letters of apology from notable figures such as Mr P.J. O’Shaughnessy (solicitor) and Mr Fitzjames-Kelly. Additionally, a letter from Mr Robert Gibson was conveyed, explaining his absence due to commitments as a judge at the Kilkeany Show. Gibson’s letter further commended Dr O’Riordan’s honourable contributions to Limerick, his commitment to living his faith, and his ability to stand resolute in his convictions while maintaining goodwill with those who held differing views.
The assembly reflected a collective sentiment of gratitude and admiration for Dr O’Riordan, signifying his profound impact on the community and underscoring the esteemed reception he garners as he embarks on his new responsibilities.
Expressions of Gratitude and Commendation at the Institute
The spirit of gratitude and admiration continued to envelop the assembly as the proceedings unfolded. Mr P. O’Brien stepped forward to propose a vote of thanks to Mr Guinane, a distinguished individual who had elevated the proceedings through his eloquent discourse. Guinane’s address, it was universally acknowledged, lent a sense of dignity to the event and brought honour to the institute. While the imminent departure of Dr O’Riordan was a poignant matter, the presence of the vice-president, Rev. Father Cregan, served as a testament to the unyielding commitment he holds for the institute’s noble cause. Father Cregan, known for his rare and brilliant qualities and revered experience as a Council member, was hailed as a beacon of guidance for the institute’s endeavours moving forward.
Seconding the vote of thanks was Mr James Delaney, who seized the opportunity to laud Dr O’Riordan’s recent literary contribution. Delaney commended Dr O’Riordan’s book, an invaluable resource for Catholic businessmen, which refuted the notion that religious identity could impede progress. Delaney challenged those who perpetuated baseless criticism against their faith to acquaint themselves with Dr O’Riordan’s work and enhance their understanding.
The honour of putting forth the vote of thanks fell to Father Cregan, who eloquently endorsed the sentiments articulated by Mr O’Brien and Mr Delaney. He accentuated the importance of the literary institute’s role and the elevated discourse it had fostered. Father Cregan praised Mr Guinane for his eloquence and manifold gifts of heart and mind, recognizing his unwavering dedication to the institute’s prosperity.
Father Cregan remarked on the profound fortune of having such a distinguished individual as their vice-president. He held Mr Guinane in high regard for his exceptional attributes and his fervent commitment to the institute’s objectives. Acknowledging the widespread acknowledgment of Dr O’Riordan’s contributions, Father Cregan noted that Ireland united in honouring him. Father Cregan depicted Dr O’Riordan not merely as a brilliant writer and eminent clergyman but as a confidante with whom he shared the humble experiences of parish life. He recounted Dr O’Riordan’s devotion to uplifting the poor in St. Michael’s Parish, illustrating his compassionate commitment.
Father Cregan’s heartfelt words painted a portrait of Dr O’Riordan as a devoted priest who, despite his literary accomplishments and lofty positions, remained connected to the most fundamental aspects of his calling—ministering to the underprivileged. This recognition of Dr O’Riordan’s unwavering dedication resonated deeply, affirming his lasting impact on the lives of those he served and uplifted.
The assembly basked in the warmth of gratitude and camaraderie, fortified by their shared appreciation for the distinguished individuals who had contributed so significantly to their community.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 10 October 1905
