'Best kept secret in the parish,' as Tipperary priests gets surprise for his 90th birthday

The parish of Ardfinnan Ballybacon and Grange gathered for Mass last Saturday evening to celebrate the parish as a whole and for all those in ministry.

But there was also a special surprise for Fr Bernard Frawley who had been promoting the event for many weeks, but was unaware that actually, the gathering was for him, as the parish wanted to surprise him to celebrate his 90th birthday.

Before the Mass concluded, Fr Michael Toomey, did pay tribute to all the parishioners, but then admitted that the gathering was a little white lie.

He said: "I suppose it was important for us as a parish to also acknowledge and to thank someone in our community who has been an exceptional support to us for many years and continues to support all of us particularly me and ensuring that we are able to serve you and to keep our churches open."

Fr Michael then confirmed: "The real reason why we wanted to gather tonight as a community was to pay tribute to you, Fr.  Frawley," to which the entire congregation burst into rapturous applause. 

"This has been the best kept secret in the parish, as we have all been planning this for some time now," Fr Toomey confessed! 

The parish presented a Papal Blessing by Pope Francis to ask for his prayers for Fr Frawley on the occasion of his 90th Birthday. 

Fr Frawley was obviously shocked and taken aback, and with great emotion in his voice thanked everyone for the surprise and said he loves travelling from Rockwell where he is based, to minister to the parishioners of Ardfinnan, Ballybacon and Grange. 

After Fr Frawley gave the final blessing, the choir sang his favourite hymn, ‘Hail Queen of Heaven’ and ‘Happy Birthday’ as he met parishioners outside.

Everyone gathered in the Community Hall afterwards where the traditional birthday cake and teas were provided by the community.