Abbatial Blessing – July 2009

Abbatial Blessing of Dom Richard Purcell – July 2009


On 16 June 2009 the community of Mount Saint Joseph Abbey, in the Diocese of Killaloe, postulated Dom Richard Purcell as Abbot for a six-year term. After receiving the necessary dispensations from the Holy See and the Abbot General, the new abbot was installed on 17 June.

Most Rev William Walsh DD, Bishop of Killaloe, blessed Dom Richard during Mass in the Abbey Church on Saturday 11 July, the Feast of our Holy Father, St Benedict. Large crowds packed the Church to be present for this important occasion for the Cistercian community at Mount Saint Joseph.

Abbots and Abbesses from numerous other communities in Ireland and further afield came to join with the monastic community of Roscrea in their wonderful celebration. Many musicians and singers were present to enrich the liturgy through the Mass. An air of jubilation was present throughout, heightening this momentous occasion in the life of Mount Saint Joseph.

Read Bishop Willie Walsh's homily from the Abbatial Blessing (Homily Abbatial Blessing Bishop Willie Walsh)

Read Dom Richard Purcell's address at the Abbatial Blessing (Abbatial Blessing Address Dom Richard Purcell)