A happy day in Killarney

Bishop Bill Murphy (Diocese of Kerry) with Br Andrew Hickey (left), Mr Colm Ó'Súilleabháin (Principal of 'The Mon' primary school and Br Martin Kenneally (right).

Friday was a special day in Killarney as the staff, students, parents, former pupils of 'The Mon' primary school joined several Brothers to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the arrival of the Presentation Brothers in the town.

Bishop Bill Murphy celebrated Mass in the beautiful St Mary's Cathedral. Afterwards there was a ceremony on the school grounds during which a monument was unveiled. The monument reflects the great Christian and monastic tradition of our country. As you can see it takes the shape of the bee hive huts which are to be found on the Skelligs, off the coast of Kerry. There is also the theme of the round tower.

Mr Colm Ó'Súilleabháin speaks to the large crowd gathered at 'The Mon'. On the right is the new monument to mark the 175th anniversary.

Well done to everyone involved in a great day!

The day was not just about history. Today, Killarney is the home of the International Novitiate of the Presentation Brothers. There are six Brothers in the community there and three men from Africa are arriving this weekend.

When a man from Ireland or England joins the Presentation Brothers he spends two years of novitiate formation (training). This takes place in Killarney.

If you'd like further information about the Presentation Brothers please e-mail me at vocation@PresentationBrothers.org