A growing memory of Fr Donnelly

A tree planting ceremony was held at St. Michael’s Church in Clifferna, Laragh, to commemorate the life of Fr Bernard Donnelly, a 19th-century priest associated with the early development of Kansas City, Missouri.

The ceremony took place on the commemorative place in Clifferna, where members of the local community gathered alongside relatives of Fr. Donnelly, acknowledging the oversees achievements of Fr Donnelly who left the parish 150 years ago.

Pat Maguire, a great grandnephew of Fr Donnelly, spoke at the event and outlined the significance of the occasion: “Today is a very special and meaningful occasion for me, my family and the parish of Laragh. It fills me with pride to stand here today. Though separated by generations there is something simply powerful returning to the place where his story began. This tree we planted today is more than just a symbol, it represents roots, growth, legacy and remembrance.”

Maguire noted the importance of the recognition taking place in Laragh for the first time. “It makes this moment even more significant that this is the first time Fr Donnelly’s achievements have been formally recognised in his native parish.” He also thanked the parish priest for organising the event, acknowledging the effort involved.

He also addressed the broader meaning of Fr Donnelly’s life: “Fr Donnelly’s life reminds us that from small humble beginnings can come great contributions.”

Fr. Bernard Donnelly was born in County Cavan in the early 19th century and initially worked as a teacher before studying engineering and later entering the priesthood in the United States. He was ordained in 1845 and assigned to a large parish centred on Independence, Missouri, at a time when the region was still developing.

He later became involved in construction and development work in Kansas City, using his engineering background to help build infrastructure including churches, schools and hospitals. He worked with Irish labourers and contributed to the early growth of the city earning him the nickname “the builder”.

Fr. Donnelly died in 1880 and is buried in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Kansas City. The newly planted tree at St. Michael’s Church is intended as a lasting acknowledgment of his life and a connection between his origins in Laragh and his achievement abroad.