Bishop Emeritus of Meath, Most Reverend Dr Michael Smith with Fr Seamus Heaney and Fr Sean Heaney after Mass in the Church of the Assumption, Delvin on Friday of last week.

Fr Heaney reflects on 60 years of ministry

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Bishop Emeritus of Meath, Most Reverend Dr Michael Smith with Fr Seamus Heaney and Fr Sean Heaney after Mass in the Church of the Assumption, Delvin on Friday evening. jay g forde

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Sr Gabriella, Sr Philomena of St George Abbey in Delvin, Fr Martin Halpin, and Fr Oliver Devine. jay g forde

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Brothers Fr Sean Heaney and Fr Seamus Heaney, who were ordained on the same day in 1964. jay g forde

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Fr Heaney with members of the catering committee who provided refreshments in the hall in Delvin on Friday evening. jay g forde

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Members of the choir with Fr Heaney on Friday evening. jay g forde

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Tommy O’Brien, first cousin of Fr Heaney, and Monica O’Brien, with Fr Heaney. jay g forde

Published: Fri 5 Jul 2024, 11:26 AM

Story and photos by Jayde G Forde

“None of us knows what the future holds,” Fr Seamus Heaney remarked at an event in his honour on Friday evening, yet he remains committed to implementing the vision of Pope Francis in the time he has left.

In a heartfelt speech marking the milestone of 60 years in ministry, Fr Heaney shared his journey and gratitude for the experiences and support he received throughout his decades of service.

Reflecting on his beginnings, he said he was ordained on June 21, 1964, and he expressed deep appreciation for the kindness and support from the Delvin community, where he has resided for 30 years, a milestone he marked last September.

His earlier years of ministry took him to various places, including a year in Rome and a brief residence in two other parishes. He was later asked to teach religion in a school, a role initially thought to be short-term but one that extended for 18 years. That experience deepened his interest in youth and faith education, a passion that continues today.

As he concluded his speech, Fr Heaney gave thanks for the grace and blessings bestowed upon him and looked forward to continuing his mission with renewed dedication.

He emphasised his ongoing dedication to various aspects of parish life, including youth ministry and faith formation. Fr Heaney expressed a particular wish: “I would like to see some young people answer the call of God to a vocation in the priesthood or religious life.”

Reflecting on his 60 years of service, Fr Heaney thanked God for the grace and blessings he received. He also expressed gratitude for the support and encouragement from bishops, fellow priests, colleagues, and the parish community and thanked everyone who sent him emails, messages, and phone calls to congratulate him.

Fr Heaney also mentioned his gratitude to his brother, Fr Sean Heaney, who was ordained on the same day in 1964.

In closing, Fr Heaney shared a humorous anecdote about a priest who learned he was being transferred to a new parish. The story was met with warm laughter, encapsulating Fr Heaney’s blend of wisdom and humour, traits that have endeared him to his parishioners over the decades.

After Mass at St Patrick’s Church, the celebration continued at Delvin community hall, where participants enjoyed sandwiches, tea, coffee and chat.

The highlight of the gathering was the special moment when Fr Heaney and his brother cut a celebratory cake together. The event brought the community together in a spirit of fellowship and celebration, marking a memorable day for all who attended.