The medieval site was that of the present friary church.
Remains: the tower and part of the choir wall are incorporated into the present church; N.B. - the tomb of the Barons of Cahir and associated sculptures, including an early trades-man's tomb-stone and a stone baptismal font. Founded in 1269, probably by Sir Otho de Grandison, the friary became Observant in 1536, four years before it was suppressed. The friars remained on in the town and were able to open an official residence in 1616. After the Restoration, we find them living in Irishtown. During the eighteenth century, they helped the parish clergy in the parish church. Having obtained the old frary once again, they were able to re-open it for Catholic worship in 1828. The friars had a small school from 1873 to 1881. The church proved too small, so the present church was built, in what the architect believed was Early English style, and formally opened in 1886. Since then, the friary residence has been added (in 1891-92) and a small St. Anthony Chapel built (1959).
Local Activities:
MASSES
Vigil Mass on Saturday: 7.00 pm
Sunday Masses: 8.00 am & 11.30 am
Daily Mass: 10.00 am
St. Anthony’s Devotions on Tuesday: 10.00 am & 7.30 pm
To mark the celebration of the 800th anniversary of the foundation of the Franciscan Order a major study of the history of the Irish Franciscans was published in November 2009. Entitled The Irish Franciscans, 1534-1990 (Four Courts Press) the work examines all aspects of the life of the friars and their impact in Ireland and on the Continent.
“Irish Eyes are Smiling” - Charity Album from Fr. Tom Russell OFM in aid of The LARCC Cancer Support Centre. Fr. Tom Russell OFM is an Irish Franciscan working in their well known community at Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal. He has recorded a charity album in aid of The LARCC Cancer Support Centre based near Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. The album, “Irish Eyes Are Smiling”, contains Irish classics such as; My Lagan Love, The Foggy Dew and Roisin Dubh.
Franciscan Friary