Augustinians apologise for concelebrated 1916 Mass

THE Augustinian Order has apologised to the Catholic hierarchy for allowing three of its priests to concelebrate the Eucharist in a 1916 Rising anniversary Mass with a Church of Ireland minister.

It was the first public concelebration in Drogheda of the Eucharist by a priest of the Anglican tradition in a Catholic church since the Reformation.

Last night, the Irish Province of the Augustinian Order said it “deeply regrets the pain, confusion and damage caused as a result of the Easter Sunday Eucharistic celebration at its church in Drogheda”.

The apology was welcomed by Archbishop of Armagh, Seán Brady.

The written apology from Fr Richard Goode, Fr Ignatius O’Donovan and Fr Noel Hession was also sent to the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto; and to Fr Robert Prevost, Prior General of the Augustinian Order, resident in Rome.

“... Having reflected on the seriousness of their actions, their letter apologises unreservedly for the ill-considered celebration and gives an absolute commitment as to future conduct in matters liturgical,” a statement from the Augustinians said.

Archbishop Brady said: “I have received correspondence from Fr Goode, Fr O’Donovan and Fr Hession, and I note in particular their undertaking to respect the discipline of the Church regarding the celebration of the Eucharist in future.”

Rev Michael Graham, rector at St Peter’s Church in Drogheda, was invited to concelebrate the Mass by member of the Augustinian community.

Rev Graham was greeted with prolonged applause by the large congregation when he appeared on the altar on Easter Sunday.