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Heartfelt Farewell: Kiskeam Celebrates Fr. Jim Kennelly’s 21 Years of Devoted Service
The Sacred Heart Church in Kiskeam was packed to capacity last Sunday as the people of Kiskeam celebrated a thanksgiving and farewell mass for their much loved Parish Priest, Fr. Jim Kennelly who will retire after 21 years of devoted service to his people who loved him dearly. In a beautifully decorated church, the local choirs and musicians added so much to the occasion. There were many tears shed as an emotional Fr. Jim told the congregation how blessed he was in his priesthood and how lucky he was to have spent the last 21 years as parish priest. He will be retiring to Millstreet and will be back to help out in the parish when needed.
Many tributes were paid to him for his great work. He was always so welcoming to everybody and a friend to all. His homilies were much acclaimed far and wide and his celebration of Holy Mass is so reverent and beautiful, his gentle voice adding so much. There was a call for his homilies to be published and kept for posterity. His support for bereaved families and his funeral mass homily was always so comforting. His support for the pupils and teachers of the local schools was appreciated, sharing his experiencing of 21 years teaching in St. Brendan’s College in Killarney.
The special committee set up to make arrangements did an excellent job and gathered support from the entire community. Mass was followed by a recitation by the local Brass Band and was then led by a lone piper as Fr. Jim was driven in a vintage car to the Community Centre where celebrations continued long into the evening. It was a wonderful day and thanks to all who helped to give a fitting send off to a wonderful priest. We wish him good health and many more years of priesthood.
