History of Youghal

 

Youghal is steeped in history, from St. Coran to the Franciscans and Dominican Friaries to Walter Raleigh and Oliver Cromwell. Youghal is a place of faith and its history is marked by the faith of so many lay faithful, religious and clergy who have served Christ and his Church faithfully; one such faithful servant was, Blessed Dominic Collins.  

 

Today the faith continues to survive, though in different circumstances.  The parish is unique in that it has 3 Churches in the town within a mile of one another and 1 Church in the Gortroe, country area of the parish. The parish welcomes many holiday makers and visitors from Easter to winter. Many come to experience the Historical town, but many others come for the beautiful beach, and relaxation. Youghal has a great reputation as a ‘Caring Town’, for within the parish boundaries, many people who are ill or elderly are looked after in the various homes, hospitals and houses. The Parish offers support and the Sacraments to the residents and patients.

 

The Parish has three Catholic primary schools, one second level school, and two religious communities. At the present moment there are four priests ministering to the parish.  Many lay people are involved in the pastoral activities of the parish; eg. ministering to the sick, baptismal team, Legion of Mary, Pioneers, Lectors, Ministers of the Eucharist, Choirs, First Holy Communion and Confirmation preparation, etc.

 

The Parish has a long history of faith going back to the 6th century. A great treasure has been handed on from one generation to the next. We continue that tradition and look for ‘new ways to pass on to young people the beauty and richness of friendship with Jesus Christ’, (Pope Benedict XVI letter to Catholics in Ireland).