The newest deacon in the Diocese of Meath was ordained on Sunday 28 May in St Patrick’s College, Maynooth.
Kevin Connolly, aged 36, spent the last five years in Maynooth, having worked as a landscaper before entering the seminary. Part of the new deacon’s pastoral training included a placement in the parish of Stamullen, Co. Meath and an intensive hospital chaplaincy programme.
“I am delighted to offer my life in the service of the Lord” Rev. Connolly said after the ordination ceremony “and I’m looking forward to working as a priest in the Diocese of Meath in the near future”.
Rev. Connolly expressed his thanks to his parents, Paddy and Kathleen Connolly, his family, friends and also Bishop Michael Smith for accepting the Monaghan native as a student for the priesthood.
The liturgy was celebrated by Archbishop Michael Neary of Tuam. Rev. Connolly was one of five new deacons who will complete their seminary training over the next 12 months before being ordained to the priesthood. Last month, three deacons studying at the Pontifical Irish College were ordained in Rome. The deacons will perform various ministries in the Church including preaching at Mass, celebrating Baptisms and Burials as well as undertaking a particular responsibility for works of charity.
Among those from the Diocese of Meath attending the ceremony were Fr Robert McGivney (Mullingar), Fr John Conlon (Duleek), Fr Michael Hinds (Dunboyne), Fr Declan Kelly (Stamullen) and Fr Kevin Heery (Navan).
