Monday, January 18, 2010

Gardai uncover hidden artefacts in St Mel’s Cathedral debris

Longford Gardaí, with assistance from the National Museum, have been sifting through the debris of the museum at St Mel's Cathedral and have recovered a number of items, including a 13th century crozier.

The small head of the crozier, 12 inches in height, originates from Limoges, France.

The other item of note that was discovered was a bell from Ferbane, Co Offaly, believed to be from a monastery.

Speaking to the Longford Leader newspaper Fr Tom Healy said, "They [Gardaí] are going to be on site for about two weeks and they are hopeful of finding a bit more."

In relation to preparing the chapel and sports hall at St. Mel's College, he said the works are ongoing.

“We are hopeful of having daily Mass at the College Chapel in a week or two while the Sunday Masses facilities will take a little longer to organise," said Fr Healy, adding that it would be four to six weeks before the sports hall will be fully ready. For now, Sunday Masses will continue in the Temperance Hall.

Last week, one of the priests from the parish went to the tabernacle to retrieve the Blessed Sacrament.

Accompanied by a Garda and employees from Hegarty Demolition, the tabernacle, which was opened by key, showed it to have suffered only mild smoke damage inside, and a number of ciboria with consecrated hosts were removed.

The Gardaí also facilitated the removal of chalices, ciboria and patens from their wall safe in the Cathedral.

They are somewhat blackened from the smoke but it is hoped that, through cleaning, most will be restored.
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