Two Irish students ordained as deacons

Two Irish students marked Easter at their ordination as deacons in Rome.

Bernard Healy from Tralee, Co Kerry, and Philip Kemmy from Buncrana, Co Donegal, graduated from the Pontifical Irish College in the city.

The ceremony took place in the Church of Saint Alphonsus, which features the original icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, in front of their families who travelled from Ireland.

In his homily, Archbishop Thomas White called on the candidates to be people of faith, prayer and joy.

“What we need above all in this moment of history are people who, through an illuminated and lived faith, render God credible in this world,” he added.

Bernard Healy, from the Diocese of Kerry, is the son of David and Bridie Healy from Tralee, Co Kerry and Philip Kemmy, from the Diocese of Raphoe, is the son of John and Mary Kemmy from Buncrana, Co Donegal.

As deacons, both will assist at the Eucharist, bless marriages, proclaim the Gospel, preside over funerals and dedicate themselves to the various ministries of charity and are one step from priesthood.

The Irish College was founded in 1628 by the Irish Franciscan, Fr Luke Wadding and the Italian Cardinal, Ludovico Ludovisi. Past pupils include Saint Oliver Plunkett and Blessed Columba Marmion.

While its primary function today is the formation of seminarians and priests for Ireland, it includes the education of clergy for other parts of the world and serves as a centre for Irish pilgrims during the summer holiday months.

More than 200 marriages are celebrated there each year. The present rector is Monsignor Liam Bergin of the Diocese of Ossory.