Boherlahan celebrates the much-loved Fr Joe Egan

The packed church in Boherlahan, filled with parishioners and friends of Fr Joe Egan, signified the impact of a wonderful priest on his flock after many decades.

A special Mass held in his honour last Friday evening saw the local church overflowing with parishioners, friends, and family, all eager to express their gratitude for his unwavering commitment and spiritual guidance.

Many priests attended the mass, including Parish Priest Fr Michael Mullanney, Fr Tom Hearne of Clonoulty, Fr Michael Kennedy, who was a former curate in the parish and Fr Tom Dunne who served six years as curate alongside Fr Joe.

The beautiful church choir finished singing after Mass ended before the chatting Boherlahan-Dualla parishioners made their way to the hall as the walk across echoed with heartfelt tributes to Fr Joe Egan.

The beloved parish priest bid farewell after more than 26 years of dedicated service to the community recently. Fr Tom Dunne, a close friend and former colleague of Fr Egan, reflected on their shared time in the parish.

“We were here together for six and a half years, right up until two years ago,” he said, emphasising the deep bonds formed during their ministry.

“Fr Joe’s commitment was always pastoral, addressing the spiritual needs of our community with exceptional dedication. It was a calling he embraced with sincerity from the moment he was ordained.”

The sentiment in the church during the Mass was palpable, as Fr Egan spoke of his journey and the responsibilities he embraced as a priest.

It was clear that his vocation was not merely a job but a lifelong commitment to the people he served.

“He maintained this dedication right up to this very day,” noted Fr Dunne, highlighting the energy and enthusiasm for meeting people that characterised Fr Egan’s ministry.

For many parishioners, Fr Egan’s presence has been a constant source of support through significant moments in their lives.

“He was involved in the lives of probably most of the families in the parish,” Fr Dunne observed.

“It’s hard to think of any family he didn’t have personal contact with over the years.”

From baptisms to confirmations, weddings to funerals, Fr Egan has been there for generations, offering solace and joy at life’s pivotal moments.

The intergenerational connection forged by Fr Egan’s ministry has left an indelible mark on the community.

“Often, he administered to grandparents, then their children, and now their grandchildren,” Fr Dunne recounted.

This unique relationship has fostered a deep sense of trust and appreciation among parishioners, illustrating the profound impact of Fr Egan’s work over the decades.

Filled with sentiment, Fr Joe had planted an Oak tree before Mass that would grow over time like faith among the people or a memory of a colossus in a parish.

Across the road in the hall after the Mass, over a cup of tea and a sandwich and goujon, people mingled on what was a celebratory night full of appreciation.

Willie-Joe O’Dwyer spoke in the hall on stage of how the local newspaper had a page on a “popular” social media influencer recently and he pointed out that Fr Joe was just as much - or more - of “an influencer”, he said.

The changing times brought uncertainty for parishes with the low number of priests but he pointed out that the community was strong and Fr Joe had helped build a community that would last.

He paid tribute to how Fr Joe would always be welcome back from Ballycahill and how Boherlahan people thought so highly of him.

On stage after that Catherine Cleary spoke of how every time Fr Joe arrived at the school the children would be delighted to see him and how the teachers always appreciated his company. Others spoke too in appreciation.

A beautiful picture of local landmarks and some gifts were given to Fr Joe to mark the occasion as a parish gave thanks. Earlier on in the evening, as the Mass unfolded, it became clear that Fr Egan’s influence extended beyond the walls of the church. His approach to ministry has resonated with the community, even amidst the significant changes faced by the church and society over the last few decades.

“Despite all the difficulties the church has experienced, there is no cynicism here,” Fr Dunne pointed out.

“People can see beyond the challenges because of the genuine care and dedication that priests like Fr Joe embodies.”

The packed church and hall stood as a testament to Fr Egan’s popularity and the love the parishioners hold for him. It was a fitting send-off for a man who has devoted his life to serving others.

“It’s refreshing to witness such unwavering faith and support,” Fr Dunne added, noting that Fr Egan’s legacy will continue to inspire both current and future generations.

The parish will continue to reflect the values he instilled so he will serve others’ lives long after his final Mass. Overall the evening celebrated a remarkable priest who gave so much to his community.