A man was escorted by members of the congregation from St Mary’s Cathedral in Killarney after he interrupted the Bishop of Kerry during the reading of the gospel at a packed morning mass.
The man, who is in his 50s, is understood to be a former resident of St Joseph’s orphanage in Killarney which had been run by the Mercy Order.
The incident took place before Dr Bill Murphy read the Pope’s pastoral letter to the congregation.
The man reportedly approached the bishop, shouting at him “to apologise”.
He was restrained by six members of the congregation and escorted out of the cathedral through a side door.
Gardai arrived on the scene and questioned the man. However, it is understood no charges are being brought.
Dr Murphy continued the reading of the gospel after the interruption.