St Oliver reliquary blessed and sealed in Oldcastle ceremony
400th anniversary of Loughcrew born martyr celebrated
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Grace Browne prays before the relics of St Oliver.Image 2 of 6
Bishop Deenihan signs the canonical document testifying to the authenticity and translation of the left femur bone of St Oliver.Image 3 of 6
Bishop Tom Deenihan planted an Acer Tree (Japanese Jewels ‘Red Flamingo’) to commemorate the 400th birthday of St Oliver in the parish of Oldcastle. From left, Frs Barry White, Phil Gaffney, Declan Hurley, Br Chryostom, Br Placid, Bishop Deenihan, Abbot Richard Yeo, Mark Mohan, Br Theodore, Robert McCabe, Conor McDonagh, Derek Darby, Paddy Moore. Photos: Noeleen SkellyImage 4 of 6
Parishioners attending included Paul and Bernie Smith, Oldcastle, with Agatha and Pat O’Connell, Ballydurrow.Image 5 of 6
Fr Conor McDonagh OP delivers the homily.Image 6 of 6
Knights of St Columbanus in attendance were, back row, from left, Jim Garvey, TJ Reilly, Paul Tuite, Vincent McHugh, Billy Newman, Thomas Hodgins, Larry McGrane; front, Joe Harlin, PJ Finn, Patsy Cosgrave, John Joe Farrell, Louis Gunning, Tommie O’Brien.The year 2025 saw the 400th anniversary of the birth of St Oliver Plunkett at Loughcrew, Oldcastle, on 1st November, as well as the 50th anniversary of his canonisation in October 1975.
A large congregation gathered on 1st November in Ss Brigid’s and Oliver’s Church, Oldcastle, to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Ireland’s last Catholic martyr and a saint cherished for his courage, pastoral zeal, and commitment to peace during a time of persecution.
The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Tom Deenihan, with clergy from across the Diocese concelebrating.
In a homily, Fr Conor McDonagh OP reflected on St Oliver’s unwavering witness to the Gospel amid the political and religious turbulence of the 17th century. He highlighted how St Oliver’s patience, forgiveness, and steadfast faith continue to inspire Christians today.
A particularly historic moment followed the homily: a newly crafted reliquary, made to enshrine the femur bone of St Oliver - long preserved in Oldcastle Church - was blessed and sealed by Bishop Deenihan before being placed in the Altar of the Sacred Heart.
Its installation marked a moment of profound devotion and deep heritage for both the parish and the wider community.
The liturgy was enriched by the beautiful singing of the Mullingar Cathedral choristers, whose music brought solemnity and reverence to the celebration. After Mass, parishioners and visitors gathered in the Parish Centre for refreshments, enjoying a warm atmosphere of joy, pride, and community spirit as Oldcastle honoured its native saint.
Oliver Plunkett was appointed Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland in 1669.
He worked tirelessly to reform clergy life, strengthen Catholic education, and promote peace during turbulent times.
Arrested during the anti-Catholic hysteria of the Titus Oates Plot, he was unjustly tried and executed in 1681. He was canonised by Pope St Paul VI in 1975.