Popular local priest retires
Fr. Pat O'Toole who is celebrated the diamond jubilee of his ordination to the priesthood earlier this year.
A popular local priest has retired after giving years of service to his parishioners.
After 12 years of ministry in the Parish of Ballintubber-Ballymoe in the Diocese of Elphin, Fr Pat O'Toole CSSp has retired.
The diocese thanked Fr Pat fand for an incredible 60 years of priesthood which he celebrated this summer.
His parishioners also thanked him, saying he had “been part of every family in their joys at their children's weddings, christenings, first Holy communions and confirmations.
“He was always there in your sorrows at the death of the members of the family and always gave joy, hope, and inspiration to all sick parishioners whom he loved to visit to their house and nursing homes,” the Ballintubber-Ballymoe Parish Newsletter said.
“No doubt, Fr Pat has been the powerhouse of prayer in this parish, a regular visible priest around the community on his daily walking exercise while praying the rosary.
“As the book of Ecclesiasticus reminds us that there is time for everything, the time has come for Fr Pat to enjoy a life free from parochial schedules and more time for prayers, reflections and resting.”
