A programme of Commemorative events has been organised to commemorate the centenary of the murder of Fr Michael Griffin during the War of Independence.
This Saturday, November 14, marks the centenary of when Fr Griffin was lured from his home at Montpellier Terrace, taken to Lenaboy Castle, and murdered by Crown Forces there. A week later, his body was found at Clochscoilte, Barna. His death highlighted the atrocities being carried out by British forces and encouraged greater support for Irish independence.
According to Fianna Fáil councillor John Connolly, the programme is a combination of religious ceremonies and historical lectures that have been organised in the parishes of Gurteen, from where Fr Griffin originally came; St Joseph’s parish in the city where Fr Griffin was stationed as a curate; and Barna parish where Fr Griffin ministered in churches at Barna and Furbo.
Events taking place
The programme includes history lectures from Professor Gearoid Ó Tuathaigh, Cormac Ó Comhraí, and William Henry. As part of the programme, local journalist Sally Ann Barrett has produced a radio documentary which will broadcast during the Galway talks programme on Galway Bay FM at 11.20am on Thursday November 19 and Friday 20.
Religious ceremonies will culminating with Bishop Brendan Kelly celebrating a special Mass in St Joseph’s Church on Sunday November 22 to coincide with Fr Griffin’s funeral having taken place there a century beforehand. It is estimated that some 12’000 people lined the streets of Galway paying respects to the funeral cortege of Fr Griffin following the Mass.
For more information see the Facebook pages of the participating parishes or contact Cllr John Connolly on 087 - 9032345.
