Annual Mass in Cloonfush will mark feast of St Jarlath
THE annual Mass at Cloonfush, outside Tuam, will take place, weather permitting, this Friday, June 5 at 7 pm.
Archbishop of Tuam and Bishop of Killala Francis Duffy will celebrate Mass to mark the Feast of our local patron St. Jarlath.
The gathering at Cloonfush around St. Jarlath’s feast day has become an established and much-valued occasion in the local calendar since it was revived in 1992 by Fr. Austin Fergus.
In 2013, marking the 21st anniversary of the revival, the congregation undertook a pilgrim walk to St. Mary's Cathedral. The tradition draws inspiration from St. Jarlath, who established a monastery in Cloonfush around 485 AD.
In recent years, the occasion has also taken on additional significance. Last year’s Mass, for example, marked the first of five stages in the Tuam Parish Pilgrimage held as part of the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025. The celebration featured live music provided by a group of talented young local musicians, contributing to a reflective and communal atmosphere.
The event also highlighted local heritage and community life. On that occasion, the communities of Kilmore and Cloonfush presented a photographic display featuring images of local history, sporting events, and family members who had emigrated from the surrounding townlands. This display offered attendees an opportunity to reflect on both past and present aspects of community life.
The cemetery grounds at Cloonfush, where the Mass takes place, are maintained by a dedicated group of local volunteers. The upkeep of the site, including equipment and materials, is funded through voluntary contributions from those with loved ones laid to rest there.
As part of the Feast of St. Jarlath, Archbishop Duffy will bless the graves, continuing a long-standing tradition associated with the ceremony.
Proceedings on the evening are preceded by a short presentation of symbolic items. These include a wooden model of the Broken Wheel of St. Jarlath, a record of those laid to rest in the cemetery, and elements drawn from the natural surroundings, which are in full bloom at this time of year. These symbols serve to connect faith, heritage, and care for the local environment.
During the Mass, prayers will be offered for those interred in Cloonfush, for students currently sitting examinations, and for the intentions of the wider local community.
The townlands of Cloonfush and Kilmore are located on the local road to the right immediately after Al Hayes’ Garage on the Galway Road. Parking in the vicinity is limited, and seating will be provided close to the altar on the evening.