A CHALICE used at the first Mass at the consecration of the church on the summit of Croagh Patrick in 1905 has returned to the Westport Parish.
The chalice was gifted to local man Owen McGreal on his ordination to the priesthood in 1959.
Following Fr. McGreal's recent death in Wales, it was found that he had left instructions for the chalice to be returned home.
Fr. McGreal, who lived in Tenby, Wales, was formerly from Drummindoo, Westport.
The story of the chalice was shared by his curate, Fr. Liam Quigley.
He explained how the chalice was used in the consecration of the church on Croagh Patrick and was kept in the parish until Fr. Owen's ordination, when it was gifted to him.
He took it as a 'very warm and welcome' gift from the parish and had used it nearly every day since.
Following his passing the chalice was found on a small altar at his home, ready for the celebration of Mass.
Fr. Owen had left instructions that the chalice be returned for use on Croagh Patrick, to be kept safe in the parish.
The chalice was presented at the offertory procession at his funeral Mass in Westport.
St. Patrick's Oratory was built in 1905 by 12 local men who used local stone and cement that was hauled up the mountain by donkey.
Fr. Owen came from a family with a strong tradition in faith and public service.
He was brother of the late Fr. Michéal, S.J., renowned sociologist and campaigner, and was also predeceased by his brother Sean and sister Sr. Mary Gregory (Louis Order).
In tributes paid since his passing he was remembered as being 'a lovely genuine man who served the Lord and his people generously'.
He was always a wonderful person to have a conversation with, always attentive and interesting.
He will be sadly missed by his brothers Austin and Padraic, sister-in-law Margie, nieces, nephews, parishioners, Archbishop Mark O'Toole and the Priests of the Menevia Diocese, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Following requiem Mass celebrated in St. Mary's Church, Westport, he was laid to rest in Aughavale Cemetery.