Feast Day 12 May

William Tirry was born in Cork City in 1608 Following his secondary education, he was received as a postulant at the Cork Augustinian "Red Abbey". He continued his studies in Vallidolid, Spain where he was ordained a priest in 1634. Further study brought him to Paris and Brussels. He returned to Cork in 1638 and was secretary to his uncle Bishop William. In 1643 he was appointed to Fethard and spent the last eleven years of his life at this location.

This was a time of huge unrest in Ireland, with widespread anti - Catholic sentiment. The walled town of Fethard was taken by Cromwell in 1650. The Chirch and Friary were dececrated and all priests were ordered to leave the country. Willian Tirry refused to do this and instead went into hiding in the town with the help of Mrs. Amy Everard. He continued to bravely work with secrecy and caution until his betrayal in 1654. On Holy Saturday, while preparing for Mass, he was arrested by Cromwellian soldiers and taken to Clonmel Gaol. His mock trial took place on May 6 with his execution on May 12.

In their accounts of his last days, his fellow prisoners speak with huge admiration for his courage and sanctity. He forgave his betrayers and preached to the huge crowds on the importance of the Ten Commandmants. In an unmarked grave Blessed William Tiry was laid to rest, beside the church known to us simply as "The Abbey". William Tiry was beatified by Pope John Paul 11 in St. Peter's Square, Rome on September 27 1992.

Canonisation Prayer.

Loving Father, we praise you for the seal of holiness your Church placed on Blessed William Tirry of Fethard, who willingly gave his life for your Gospel truth which he professed and lived. Grant through his intercession an answer to our prayers now in our time of need. We pray especially for..................... May your holy will be done. We trust in your mercy, and pray too that in your blessed providence, the name Blessed William will soon be added to the list of our saints.

We make our prayer through Christ our Lord.