Fr Edward Flynn celebrates 70th anniversary of his Ordination

20 Oct 2011

Bishop Michael Smith, Bishop of Meath with Fr Edward Flynn (born in 1916; ordained 70 years ago) and Fr Kevin Heery (ordained 10 days ago).

Fr Edward Flynn celebrates 70th anniversary of his Ordination

A historic gathering of the Catholic clergy of Meath took place on 19 October to mark the 70th anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood of the Very Reverend Edward Flynn. Bishop Michael Smith and Meath priests ordained in each of the last seven decades attended to celebrate this significant milestone in the life and ministry of Fr Flynn.

Ahead of this special anniversary celebration Bishop Smith expressed his appreciation, on behalf of the priests and faithful of the Diocese of Meath, for the ministry of Father Edward Flynn: “Our meeting together is an opportunity for priests from different generations to express their personal gratitude to Father Edward Flynn.  Father Flynn fulfilled his role in the pastoral life, education and administration of the diocese of Meath with distinction and dedication.  Even in retirement, he continues to support the mission of the church both through his prayer and abiding interest in the life of the diocese.”

Father Edward Flynn was born in Ballinabrackey on 4 January 1916 and ordained in the National Seminary, Saint Patrick’s College Maynooth in 1941.  Father Flynn’s appointments in the diocese of Meath included his role as Professor in St Finian’s College, Mullingar 1943- 1960, Curate in Kilmessan 1960 – 1965, Curate in Kells 1965 – 1972; Parish Priest in Donore 1972 – 1981; and Parish Priest in Ballinabrackey 1981 until his retirement in 1995.  Fr Flynn has been a resident in Portiuncula Nursing Home, Multyfarnham since 2005.