History > Franciscan Cross
Rev. Denis Cahill erected a cross at Drumnaquoile in 1951
to mark ‘the place of refuge’ occupied by the
Franciscans of Downpatrick after their expulsion by Elizabethan
soldiers and the execution of three members of their community
in 1570.
The following is excerpt from a news article, which was printed
in the Mourne Observer on Saturday 15th September 1951, to
comemerate the official opening of the Memorial Cross dedicated
to the Franciscan Friars.
"MEMORIAL CROSS TO FRANCISCAN FRIARS
DRUMNAQUOILE CEREMONY
On Sunday last, on a steep heather-clad hillside in Drumnaquoile
the Roman Catholic Bishop of Down and Connor blessed a memorial
cross in honour of the Franciscan Friars who laboured there
some centuries ago. As the ceremony concluded, the Papal colours
were slowly hoisted on a 20ft. mast on the hill to the strains
of “Faith of our Fathers.”
Priests and people then walked in procession to the temporary
chapel near the foot of the hill where once stood the Franciscan
Friary. "
Photos
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FRANCISCAN CROSS OFFICIALLY OPENED 9TH SEPTEMBER 1951 AT DRUMNAQUOILE
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