THE FRANCISCAN Order, which closed its doors in Limerick last week after 730 years of service to the local community, was among three pillars of religious life in the city honoured at a civic reception by Limerick County Council yesterday.
Bishop of Limerick Dr Donal Murray, former church of Ireland bishop the Rt Rev Michael Mayes and the Franciscan Order all received the highest accolade that the local authority can award to an individual, group or organisation at a special reception held at Adare Manor yesterday.
The main Franciscan friary was established in Limerick in 1267 while the present church and friary, which closed at the weekend, were opened in 1886 and reconstructed in 1929.
At yesterday’s civic reception, cathaoirleach of Limerick City Council Kevin Sheahan said the order’s members were valued by the local community.
Dr Murray was honoured in recognition of the silver jubilee of his episcopal consecration and his continuing service to Limerick.