Ballintubber Abbey pays tribute to the late Fr Frank Fahey
Ordained in 1973, Fr Fahey devoted more than four decades of priestly ministry to Ballintubber Abbey before retiring in 2020.
The Ballintubber community and Mayo in general is mourning the passing of Fr Frank Fahey, who died peacefully, surrounded by his loving and heartbroken family on Thursday, July 16, at the age of 90.
Ordained in 1973, Fr Fahey devoted more than four decades of priestly ministry to Ballintubber Abbey before retiring in 2020.
Throughout his time there, he became one of the driving forces behind the Abbey's revival and restoration, leaving a lasting legacy that has impacted both the local community and the thousands of pilgrims and visitors who have passed through its doors.
Fr Fahey, who celebrated his 90th birthday in February, was widely recognised for his instrumental role in the redevelopment of Ballintubber Abbey during the 1980s.
He also founded the Abbey's acclaimed Easter Passion Play and played an impactful role in reviving the ancient Tochar Phádraig pilgrimage route
In a statement shared on social media, Ballintubber Abbey highlighted the poignant timing of his passing, which came on the same day work officially began on the new Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre, a project they described as ‘the ambitious dream he held so close to his heart for Ballintubber Abbey's future.’
“His work here is done. His legacy will live on in every stone of what comes next, and his love for Ballintubber and this Abbey will never be forgotten. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis,” the statement concluded.
May he rest in peace.
Funeral arrangements will be announced later