The Clergy of Down and Connor, 1400-1900 by Canon George O'Hanlon and Monsignor Ambrose Macaulay
THIS deeply detailed and thoroughly researched book is not only a valuable resource in its own right but a fitting tribute to its two diligent and dedicated authors, who both died before its publication.
The Clergy of Down and Connor, 1400-1900 is the fruit of years of effort by Canon George O'Hanlon and Monsignor Ambrose Macaulay.
In addition to their pastoral service, both were hugely admired for their contributions to recording the history of the Diocese of Down and Connor.
Canon O'Hanlon, who died in 2015, was Diocesan Archivist between 1983 and 2014. Monsignor Macaulay, who died in 2019, was an ecclesiastical historian of note. He served as parish priest of St Brigid's between 1989 and 2010.
The two men spent years compiling the information in this volume, which has been published by the Ulster Historical Foundation.
It offers insight into the numerous clergy who have served in Down and Connor from the medieval period through to 1900, with all the times of tumult - and triumph - that entailed: from pre- Reformation times and the Penal era to the 19th century expansion.
Brief biographical details of each cleric who served during these centuries is included.
This book - a beautifully produced 210-page colour hardback - will appeal to those interested in ecclesiastical history in general but specifically in the development of Down and Connor and the clergy upon whose shoulders today's diocese stands.
The Clergy of Down and Connor, 1400-1900 by Canon George O'Hanlon and Monsignor Ambrose Macaulay is published by the Ulster Historical Foundation at £19.99. It can be ordered online here.
